Camping can be great fun, and every person who has ever traveled this way will surely confirm that. The feeling of freedom caused by being close to nature, and having direct contact with the environment is an excellent experience.
However easy and natural camping seems to be, not everyone can be a perfect camper at the start. There are some necessary skills that you should obtain and be aware of before you set off for your first camping adventure. Some campers also opt to install cargo trailers on their cars for added mobility and comfort especially when you are traveling with kids. Renown Cargo Trailers provides vast options if you want to consider this option for your next camping experience.
Below, you’ll find a list of ten essential camping skills that every camper should have. If you’re not an expert yet, don’t worry – you can always find information online, for example, by reading an article on first aid or a ‘how to pitch a tent’ guide.
1. Geography Knowledge
In the area of Google Maps and all the digital tools, good command of geography seems outdated and simply old-fashioned. It is still essential for camping, though.
If you decide to sleep under the stars and move around the forest, beach, or fields, you should study the place you’re visiting very carefully. No one would like to be surprised by sudden changes in heights or by muddy areas.
That’s why a good camper should be fluent in geography and be able to read the map, use a compass, and observe the changes of the terrain.
2. First Aid
Good command of first aid is another essential skill that every camper should have. When you’re outside the city, access to medicine or hospitals is extremely limited.
That’s why the knowledge of procedures in case of a burn, cut, or a broken leg is a must for everyone who’s planning a camping trip. Accidents caused by the difficult area, the sun, or animals met on the way are not rare.
Bring two pairs of glasses for longer or rough excursions. To get quality glasses at a great price, these eyeglass frames for men and women are a great option. It’s also recommended to get a pair of goggles or sunglasses depending on the weather conditions.
If you want to read more about the first aid in the case of camping and the necessary kit, click here.
3. Animal and Plant Recognition
Every camper should have a basic knowledge of animal and plant species. It’s not only helpful in obtaining potential food, but also in recognizing potential dangers.
If you see a wolf, for example, you’ll be more careful than when seeing a dog. The same goes for various plant species – some of the flowers or leaves might be poisonous, and it’s dangerous to eat or touch them.
4. Proper Planning
Planning is a crucial skill in many areas of life, camping included. Without it, you’ll not be able to experience any safe and exciting adventure.
Planning is not only about reading various guides or travel blogs. It is also about considering the abilities of all the participants and adjusting the route to them.
If you want to get to know more about how to plan your camping journey and get some valuable tips, do research first. It’s also good to contact other travelers and share the ideas with them.
5. Building a Campfire
There’s no camping without a campfire – and it’s not only in the movies! If you want to go camping, you need to know how to build a stable campfire. It’s a source of light and warmth, but also a tool to cook some food on your way.
Although building a campfire seems easy, it does require some skill and experience. If you want to read more on this topic, have a look at this guide. Another great resource can be found on overlandsite.com, Everything About Campfires.
6. Cooking
Cooking may not seem the most necessary skill while camping, but it is definitely useful under these circumstances. Why? A good cook can prepare anything – even if there’s a temporary shortage of food during camping, he’ll find a solution.
The ability to find unusual solutions and product combinations is handy when it comes to cooking on a camping trip.
7. Survival Skills
Survival skills are another key element when it comes to camping. They help you feel more prepared and safe in all circumstances, even under unexpected conditions, such as, for example, a natural disaster.
Survival knowledge is not easy to obtain and master, as it combines both physical and mental strength, stamina, practical, and first aid knowledge. However, there are some survival courses, so it’s possible to master it even a little.
8. Mental Stamina
Mental stamina and resistance towards difficult conditions and situations are just as important as physical strength. It allows you to make reasonable decisions and stay calm even in extreme situations.
Mental stamina can be a skill that you’re simply born with, but if it’s not the case, you can still learn it. It’s best to practice it in real circumstances and take part in various camping trips with different people and in different conditions.
9. Using The Tools
A good camper should have a natural ability to use tools such as a torch, a knife, a rope, a fire starter, a repair kit, and others.
They are all a base for any camping trip and guarantee safety there. If you’re not familiar with any of the tools, simply practice using them beforehand. You can also learn it by watching various online tutorials.
10. Cooperation and Interpersonal Skills
The ability to cooperate with others and maintain good interpersonal relationships is a must if you want to travel in a good company and a positive atmosphere.
Cooperation is the base for any good trip – it’s essential to listen to everyone’s needs and adjust the route, the pace, and other factors not only to you but also to people traveling with you. You’re all in this together, aren’t you?
Conclusion
A camping trip might sound innocent, but in fact, it is a serious event that needs not only proper planning but also some exceptional skills and abilities.
A good camper should undoubtedly be a sociable, understanding and mentally resistant person, who has some well-developed practical skills, such as using tools, cooking, or preparing a campfire.
Remember to think about those qualities before you set off for a camping trip. If you don’t have all of them, however, don’t worry – maybe there’s someone else in your team who is a master in these fields?
