Americans love camping. Many of them enjoy the feeling of the outdoors and just being one with nature. It’s estimated that the number of campers has increased despite the pandemic and that there’ll be more who will do it in the coming years. However, camping isn’t just a hobby. It has become a lifestyle.
However, before you start camping, you need to be prepared. Here are five things you need to know about camping.
Different Types of Camping
Most people think there is only one kind of camping, but there are several different types. The three main types are car camping, backpacking, and dispersed camping.
Car Camping
It’s the most popular type of camping, especially for those new to it. Car camping means you drive your car to the campsite and set up camp there. This is the most accessible type of camping since you don’t have to carry all your gear with you.
However, when trying this out, ensure your states allow you to sleep inside your car. Some states that don’t allow people to sleep in their vehicles are Alabama, Colorado, and Connecticut. These places don’t allow overnight parking, so you can’t car camp in these states.
Backpacking
Backpacking is a type of camping where you carry all your gear in a backpack. It’s perfect for those who love hiking since you can hike to your campsite.
It’s also the type of camping that requires the most preparation. You must ensure that you have the right gear and that your backpack is big enough to fit everything. You should also be aware of the Leave No Trace principles to ensure you’re not damaging the environment.
Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping is when you camp in an undeveloped area away from developed campsites. This type of camping is usually allowed in national forests and grasslands.
When dispersed camping, you need to be aware of the area around you. Make sure there are no signs saying dispersed camping is not allowed. You should also have a site map so you don’t get lost.
Only Pack The Essentials
First-time campers tend to pack everything they can in their bag. Although this isn’t generally bad, it can be detrimental if you’re planning to go trekking or backpacking. Remember, the more weight you carry, the harder it will be.
So, what are the essentials? The answer is different for everyone, but there are some general things that everyone should bring. These include a tent, sleeping bag, first-aid kit, food, water, and a flashlight.
Of course, you should also bring clothes and other items to make your camping trip more comfortable. But don’t bring too much since you’ll carry a lot of unnecessary weight.
Lastly, don’t forget about coffee. You’ll need all the energy you need when camping, so bring some. When making coffee, ensure you have a portable capsule coffee maker. You don’t want to bring something too big with you. This coffee maker can ensure that you can make coffee while you’re on the move. Moreover, because of its small size, it opens up space in your bag for other things.
Be Aware of Wildlife
One of the dangers of camping is encountering wildlife. This is especially true if you’re camping in an area with large predators like bears or mountain lions.
To avoid getting hurt by wildlife, make sure to follow the rules of the area. For example, don’t leave food out in the open, and keep your campsite clean. You should also make noise while walking, so you don’t startle any animals.
If you do encounter an animal, don’t try to feed it. It will only attract more animals to your campsite. Instead, slowly back away and make yourself as small as possible.
Know How to Build a Fire
One of the best things about camping is sitting around a campfire at night. Not only does it provide warmth, but it’s also a great way to relax after a long day.
However, building a fire isn’t as easy as it looks. First, you need to gather the right materials and assemble them in the right way.
First, you need to find a spot for your fire. It should avoid anything that can catch fire, like trees or bushes. You should also clear the area around your fire, so there’s nothing flammable nearby.
Next, you need to gather materials for your fire. The best thing to use is wood, but you can also use paper or leaves. Once you have your materials, you need to create a teepee shape with them. It will help oxygen flow through your fire and make it easier to light.
Once you have your teepee, light it from the top using a match or lighter. Once the fire is lit, add more wood to keep it going.
Camping can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be prepared for it. By knowing the things we’ve listed above, you should be prepared for anything that comes your way.