Travel

Camping 101: Things To Know Before Taking To Life In The Outdoors

Written by Chloe Harwood

So, you’re considering venturing into the great outdoors. We don’t blame you. It’s a great escape from the usual 9-5 routine. When it comes to heading out to campsites, there are a few things you’re going to need to plan in advance.

Choose A Destination

There are an endless number of beautiful locations to camp around the world. Browse the internet for the perfect one for you. Certain areas will offer different things. For example, some’s strongest point will be their beautiful scenery. Others will be close to rapids which can offer great activities for the sportier and more extreme of us. Wherever you go, you’re bound to have a great time. You just might need to be a bit pickier if you’re going to want to engage in particular activities or be close to certain landmarks while you’re away.

Choose A Mode Of Transport

There are a few ways to go around camping. You can go all out, like many students do and backpack. This is a “wherever the wind takes you” approach. You pack your bag, grab your tent and find your way as you go along. This generally involves a combination of hiking, public transport and even hitchhiking. However, we wouldn’t recommend hitchhiking. It can be a potentially dangerous situation to put yourself in. Others opt for taking an RV. An RV is essentially a mini motorhome on wheels. You can travel and stay in it. It’s more comfortable and warmer than staying in a standard tent. So, if you like a little more comfort or are travelling with kids, this might be the perfect option for you. Pretty convenient, right?

Find A Campsite

You’re going to need to find somewhere to stay once you’ve made your way to your destination. Many state parks, local parks and wildlife agencies own campsites which you can gain easy access to. Others are privately owned, for example the world famous Jellystone Park. Any of these campsites offer you the comforts of home, whilst still allowing you to venture into the great outdoors. They’re perfect for first time campers or families who fancy taking a trip. They’re also much safer than simply strolling into the woods alone without supervision, electricity or security.

Tents

Unless you’ve opted for an RV or campervan, you’re most likely to be staying in a tent. Choose wisely, as this will be your accommodation for the whole time that you’re away. It will need to withstand the elements. You don’t want it to collapse in the night, float away with a little rain or get blown down by a strong gust of wind. Choose something secure and thoroughly waterproof with zips and a ground mat. The ground mat and waterproof fabric will protect you and your belongings from the damp. There’s not much worse than waking up in a cold puddle of rainwater. The zips will help to keep insects out. A few are bound to get in somehow, but the fewer the better. Zips also mean that you can have a little more privacy when getting changed or sleeping.

About the author

Chloe Harwood