Sometimes all a person needs is an escape from this chaotic world. To submerge their soul in the arms of nature. A little me time with mother nature is truly therapeutic and can calm all your nerves. Now, not all of us can afford to book a trip to some exotic island but that shouldn’t stop you from taking some time away from your busy schedule to relax and unwind. That’s where camping jumps in.
Camping is one of the most inexpensive, refreshing, and exciting getaways available. It should surely be on your list whether you’re searching for a fun and wild activity or just a trip to get away from everyday life.
If you’ve recently been obsessed with camping and lack any prior knowledge of the hobby, don’t worry; we’re here to guide you. In this article, we have compiled some useful tips and tricks so you can enjoy camping despite your inexperience.
Types Of Camping
Before you learn how to camp as a novice, you should be aware of the various types of camping. Everybody has a different perception of the ideal camping trip in their head. Some people enjoy a quick journey into the woods, while others like to remain in a fancy cabin for a longer time. Once you are aware of the many camping options, you can choose the one you would like.
The most common types of camping are glamping, tent camping, backpack camping, and RV camping. We will discuss these sorts quickly so that you may determine what you are aiming for.
Glamping: Glamping is an expression for “glamorous camping.” As extravagant as it may sound, the trip consists of a luxury cabin with all the amenities, like a restroom, a bed, running water, food, etc. Glamping differs significantly from typical camping. It’s intended for people who would want to enjoy camping and some time in the outdoors but cannot or do not wish to live in a survival mode. Glamping is more common among families having kids or for women.
Tent Camping: Tent camping is a traditional form of outdoor recreation in which a camper sets up the camp and spends several days residing in a tent in any outdoor location. Tent camping is the most popular style of camping among adventurers seeking a daring and exciting outdoor pastime. This kind of camping requires setting up a tent by oneself and surviving for a few days with just basic necessities.
Backpack Camping: Backpack camping is just a hiking excursion in which the camper only carries a backpack with their essential needs such as food, water, clothing, bedding, and so on. This is the most basic kind of camping. In this form, you explore nature while carrying your entire camp with you in your backpack.
RV Camping: RV is an acronym for a recreational vehicle. In this form, you simply go automobile camping in specialized camp vehicles. These camp trucks are available in a variety of models and could be quite expensive, but you may rent them if you want to try this type of camping. These vehicles act as your temporary residence while allowing you to travel comfortably without constantly setting up your tent.
We will focus on tent camping in this guide and go through all the necessary how-tos for beginners.
Pick A Location
Now that you have finally decided to go camping it’s time to decide where to go. It’s important to pick the ideal destination while going camping for the first time. As a beginner, you should avoid venturing too far from your home, especially if you’re going alone. Until you are a pro at this, choose campsites that are close to your home or have backup locations nearby to run to in case of an emergency.
Furthermore, as a beginner, avoid setting up your camp in the wilderness where there is a risk of being attacked by wild creatures. Although it may sound thrilling to come across a wild animal while camping, you should avoid choosing a location that is in close proximity to wild animals like bears or lions.
Additionally, if you want to prepare yourself before going actual camping, you can try backyard camping as well. Since it will give you some experience and allow you to determine whether you are ready for bigger ventures.
Check Weather Beforehand
Another important aspect to keep in mind is the weather situation. Always check weather predictions before planning a trip. Completely avoid going to places where harsh weather like storms or strong winds are predicted. As the old folks say, it’s better safe than sorry.
Even if the weather is cleared the day you’re going you should take all the necessary precautions with you in case of a bad weather situation.
Purchase The Perfect Tent
You can’t go camping without a camp. The most important step in planning a camping trip is picking the right tent. Given that tents come in several forms and are quite costly, you would not want to end up with the wrong one.
When choosing the ideal tent for your very first camping trip, there are several things to keep in mind.
- Is it big enough to accommodate the number of campers?
- Is the tent water-resistant?
- Is it practical and comfortable?
- Is it simple to launch?
First, decide on the type of camping you want to do. Hiking, car camping, or RV camping? After that, check the weather forecast and select a tent that can withstand any harsh climate. Next, choose a tent big enough to fit everyone inside, along with their bedding and other belongings. Because your tent will be your home, choose one that is comfortable and inviting. Furthermore, in addition to sufficient ventilation, it should be secure.
Additionally, avoid tents that are extremely complex to pitch. Before going camping, practice setting up your tent. And, after purchasing a new tent, always give it a test run to check for any faults.
Prepare A Camping Checklist
Make a list of everything before you go camping to ensure that your trip is enjoyable and hassle-free. You can make a list of all the tasks you need to complete, from shopping to packing. As a beginner, it is critical that you thoroughly organize this trip and bring every necessary item to avoid any inconvenience. Additionally, creating a checklist can help you prepare things ahead of time and prevent you from rushing or forgetting anything.
Essentials and Safety Kit
There is a lot of packing involved when taking a vacation or anywhere where you will be out of your comfort zone for some time. And no matter how good your memory is, something will always slip your mind. Therefore, it is crucial that you carefully plan your first camping trip and create a list of all the supplies you wish to bring.
Typically, camping locations are in forested, parkland, or other natural settings where it can be difficult to find basic supplies. So make up your mind to bring whatever you might need for this outdoor adventure. The following are some essential goods to bring on your trip:
- Toiletries (towels, soaps, toilet paper, toothbrushes, and toothpaste).
- Clothes (weather appropriate)
- Blankets
- Sleeping bags and pillows
- Torches or any source of light
- Knives, scissors, tapes, matchsticks
- Trash bags
- Chargers or batteries for your electronics
- First aid kit
- Wet wipes
- Insect repellent
To be on the safe side, make sure to take extras of everything. Additionally, create a list of all the necessities and tick each item off as you pack it.
Sleeping Necessities
Being close to nature doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a peaceful, comfortable night’s sleep. A good night’s sleep is crucial for ensuring that you have a pleasant trip. Especially if you plan to stay more than a day or two.
To help make sure that you have a good time when camping, you should have a comfortable sleeping arrangement. Your sleeping gear must include the following items;
Sleeping bag: Invest in a comfy and portable sleeping bag. Furthermore, make certain that the temperature of your sleeping bag corresponds to your chosen destination.
Sleeping pad: Using a sleeping pad will keep you safe from the unevenness of the rough ground and provide additional comfort. Just make sure your sleeping pad is in good working condition.
Pillows: Pillows are important for a restful night’s sleep, so don’t forget them. If you have a favorite pillow, bring it along as it will add a homely feel.
Blankets: Regardless of the location or the weather, nights are typically chilly. Therefore, be sure to bring blankets—even extras, in case it gets colder at night.
Meal Prep
Probably the most enjoyable and exciting part of camping is having meals around the campfire. The experience won’t be as pleasant, though, if all of your time is devoted to cooking. Planning your meals ahead of time will be a lifesaver on your first camping trip. Since you’ll be exhausted after setting up the tent or exploring, you’ll be craving a good, satisfying feast.
Making meals while camping sounds exciting and enjoyable, and it is, but it would be a huge hassle if you made everything from scratch. Therefore, it’s crucial that you have everything under control and have made as much preparation as possible.
For you to fully enjoy your outdoor adventure, several camping meal ideas are simple to prepare and need very little time. However, there are several items you must remember to carry for your camping trip.
- Pantry staples (according to your meals)
- Snacks
- Water and drinks
- Food containers and zip-lock bags
- Gas stoves and fuel
- Plates, mugs, and cutlery
- Matchsticks or lighter
- Napkins
- Pans and pots
- Electric kettle
- Cooking utensils (spatulas, tongs, knives)
If planning barbeque;
- Grill
- Coals
- Fuel
- Sauces and seasonings
Other Amenities
Camping is all about enjoying life outdoors and temporarily forgetting about the world around us. The ultimate level of tranquility is setting up camp in a gorgeous location and appreciating nature. You must be aware of the therapeutic benefits of camping if you have made it your passion.
You can include additional facilities to make your camping experience the best and most memorable, regardless of being your first. Even though these items aren’t absolutely necessary, having them will be a smart choice.
- Camp chairs
- Camp table
- Tablecloth
- GPS
- Wood for fire
- Bottle or can opener
- Icebox or mini refrigerator
- Speakers
- Gaming activities
Some Important Tips To Remember
Now that you are all packed up and ready to roll, there are some basic rules and camping tips and tricks that you as a beginner must follow.
- For your first camping trip, pick a beautiful spot that is close to home.
- To find a decent hiking or camping site, seek one that is secure and far from the wilderness.
- After purchase, make sure that all of your camping equipment is functioning properly.
- Before the trip, get some practice camping.
- Dress for the weather and pack appropriately.
- Check the weather forecast for the dates you’ve chosen.
- Pack extras of everything.
- Keep your garbage out of the flames.
- Before going to bed, make sure the campfire is out.
- Bring lots of snacks and drink.
- Keep children and pets close to you at all times and take particular care of them.
- Set up your tent in a smooth, level area.
- Make a list of all the tasks and necessities.
- Must abide by the rules of the campsite.
- Before you leave the campsite, make sure to thoroughly tidy it.
- Never leave garbage at your campsite, and try to leave the place better than you found it.
Overview
When you lie on the ground and look up at the starry sky, there is something incredibly soothing and comforting about it. The scenery, the vibe, everything is breathtaking. Camping has to be the most invigorating life experience of all. Camping is a terrific choice if you’re hunting for an exciting new hobby or simply looking for a getaway to the ethereal countryside.
This outdoor experience could be too challenging for you as a beginner camper. However, to make this experience easier for you, we have created a list of some basic camping tips and practices that you should be aware of in order to fully enjoy this activity.