Planning A Car Camping Trip For First-timers
Introduction
Since more and more countries are starting to ease their COVID-19 restrictions, what better way to welcome summer than with some outdoor activities? Perhaps camping? If you’re a first-timer at camping, or simply have not gone for a while, check out this guide for perfecting your first camping trip.
What makes camping so fun? It’s wallet-friendly, enjoyable and there are many places free for camping trips regardless of which area you reside in. If this is your first time camping, or at least for a while now, camping in cars is your best bet. An adventure on foot may seem enticing, but having a car can ensure ultimate comfort and you can reduce costs on camping gear. Remote areas are always a challenge you can take up. You can even plan a day trip away from where you set up camp for the extra thrill! Coming back to camp from a long day out hiking or even on a day ride to a hearty dinner and perhaps a refreshing cup of beer is the best feeling every camper yearns for.
Where To Go
Think about how well-equipped your amenities need to be. Some people may be content with simple bathroom stalls, and some require more facilities such as tables for a cozy picnic or even as far as a playground for the kids to let loose. For more facilities, you may require a camping site that is more developed. The downside to a relatively more developed camping site, however, is that you will probably need to make a booking earlier. Some options you can explore for campsites are some private land areas or even national parks. It’s essentially the same as booking a room in a hotel and is easily accessible as you can use Google Maps to find your way. These sites can offer an enjoyable weekend where you can admire the beauty of nature, such as the sunrise or stargaze at night. However, do note that in places that are typically more developed, you will definitely see other fellow campers around, so it’s not the ideal setting for people who prefer a getaway from social interaction. If you’re bringing pets to the campsite, you will probably have to keep them on a leash too.
If you’re looking for a quaint getaway and want to shy away from the crowd, you could try out dispersed camping. Dispersed camping is when you look for a personal campsite and set it up in either a national or state park. Basically, you look around in forests, a desert, or even in the mountains to find a specific spot to camp in. You do have to follow basic protocols such as leaving the place clean so that the next camper can have a pleasant camping experience. Some of these places do not require pets to be leashed, so that’s a plus point!
What To Bring
Sleep Essentials
Some essentials required for a good night’s sleep include a sturdy tent, a comfy sleeping pad, and a sleeping bag. While they are perfect for keeping your sleeping space bug-free and any rain away, they can be rather heavy-duty and bulky, which means it is not exactly compact. 4P tents are suitable for a pair to go car camping. To help you determine what is a good tent size, a 4P tent is best for four people to lie down side by side. Thus, if you’re gonna be rolling around or need a space for a change of clothing throughout the day, you’ll require a bigger tent size in comparison to how many campers you have.
Sleeping pads are to cushion your body, but it also insulates it. However, the pad of a sleeping bag blocks off heat transfer due to your body compressing the insulation of the bottom of the sleeping bag and because of that, they often stop functioning after a few uses. Thus, inflatable beds are not recommended because a slim sleeping pad made out of foam or an inflated one calls for extra comfort, making the costs worth it in the long run. A sleeping bag can go for super cheap prices with over-sensationalized ratings. Most temperature metrics are reported without regulation and verification and are mostly based on European standards. Sleeping bags from renowned brands are way more durable for cold weather conditions. Sleeping bags, synthetic ones that are, can give you a bang for your buck on car camping trips.
Cooking Essentials
A stove is needed if you want to have a source of heat or fire. Even if you don’t cook, you can use it to get a cuppa in the early mornings of your camping trip. Reusable utensils and plates are recommended for reducing wastage. Besides, disposable ones mean you have to pack all of it into a trash bag, which is another thing to add to your packing list – what a chore! Don’t forget your pots and pans, throw all your frozen foods into a cooler and you’re good to go.
Camping Necessities
Insect repellent is a must-have if you want the creepy crawlies to stay away from your campsite. Get some cheap lightbulbs made of plastic for good lighting around your camp. Rain or shine, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared. Bring sunscreen and prepare a tarp for shelter in case of a rainy day.
Camping Apparel
Layer up for cold weather. Wool is your best friend! While cotton is not the best option, it may save you money if you’re gonna shop for an entirely new set of clothing just for a camp.
Cleanliness
Keep your food away from sight to avoid animal attacks, and make sure you wash your hands regularly when handling food. Use a hand sanitizer and clean up after you to keep the campsite clean.
Conclusion
Delegate the responsibilities and communicate them well so that everyone can have fun together. Ensure your packing list is well crafted and offers you the most comfortable camping experience. For a first-timer, you would love a campfire so ensure the regulations allow for one if you wish to go ahead with it. During these unprecedented times, COVID-19 has taken many lives and continues to do so. Thus, we should do our part and take the appropriate measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Ensure that you do not camp in large groups, and try to maintain a safe distance from others to avoid direct contact. Camp safely and responsibly!
