Even with summer being almost over, it doesn’t mean that you can’t go camping and connect with nature a little. On the contrary – it is always a good idea to get away for the weekend to enjoy the rustling trees, soothing silence, and fresh air. Especially now, in the time of the global pandemic, camping seems like a great way of spending your free time and getting off the grid.
According to CondorFerries, “camping has significantly increased in popularity, with the latest figures in 2018 showing 1.4 million households camped for the first time. In 2016 the number and demographics of camping participants were 40.5 million Americans or 13.7% of the population over the age of 6 in 2016. This is up by 500,000 campers in 2015. Camping days logged by campers totaled 587.2 million, an average of 14.5 days per person. “
If you are ready to get closer to nature and let your mind rest, all you need to do is organize your trip. In this article, you will find ways to improve your camping experience during the summer. With these tips, you will create a unique vibe and some wonderful memories.
Cool the Air
Camping can be delightful as long as you don’t struggle with the weather too much. The continuously rising temperatures can be an absolute game-changer for your idyllic holidays, but there is quite a simple answer to this issue – a camping fan. This little device can keep you and your tent cool during the worst heat waves, which will undoubtedly impact your mood.
You can find plenty of camping fans in the brick-and-mortar stores or the internet; simply browse the keywords: camping fans, tent fans, or best camping fans, and you will see many options with reliable fan reviews. And, if it isn’t too rainy in your area, you may consider planning your camping trip for spring or fall.
Location, Location, Location
There are many different camping styles, from full-on private areas to wild camping zones. Before choosing the location, consider your needs, expectations, and abilities. If you’re going for a family trip, perhaps selecting a managed location with kids’ entertaining zone is a better option.
On the other hand, imagine waking up to a beautiful view of the sunrise by the lake, listening to birds’ soothing singing, with nobody else around you.
Remember not to bite more than you can chew. Despite their beauty, wild locations might be challenging to handle when you have no previous experience, especially during bad weather conditions.
Set up the Tent in the Shade
Another way to avoid difficult mornings is to set up your tent in the shade. This will undoubtedly keep your belongings (most importantly, foods if you don’t have a mini-fridge), improve the quality of your sleep, and eliminate the risk of waking up too early sweating. Find a place with trees or another natural barrier protecting you against the sunlight to keep your tent cool during the whole day.
According to the camping experts from Koa.com, “The average latitude of the United States lies around 39 degrees north of the equator, meaning the sun will rise in the southeast and set in the southwest. Depending on where you are camping, in the middle of a summer day, it will pass anywhere from 2 to 25 degrees south of zenith – in layman’s terms, that means it will almost be directly overhead. Grab a compass, which now comes included in many smartphones, and figure out where the sun will pass in the sky. “
Take Useful Gadgets
There are some handy gadgets that may make your camping trip a whole lot easier and more comfortable. Make a checklist and write down some essentials, such as an adapter, led lights for lighting up your campsite, a USB cable to connect your devices to a power bank, or battery-powered flashlight. An extra sleeping bag (just in case) and kitchen appliances may also be useful.
Another good idea is to invest in multi-purpose water jugs. Before leaving for the camping trip, you can freeze some water jugs and keep them at the bottom of the cooler to keep things cold. Then, as soon as they melt, you will have drinking water.
Stay Green
All trips, and especially those close to nature, demand you to take special care of the environment. In other words, you need to leave the place as you found it and keep your camping style as green as possible. We know it’s difficult not to produce any waste, but it’s not that hard to reduce the amount of trash and take the ones you make with you when you leave.
Moreover, when you camp in a big group, it’s worth considering recycling. If you enjoy the charm of Mother Nature, the least you can do is respect her.
The Bottom Line
Spending vacation on the camping site has endless advantages – from stress reduction and closeness to nature, through bonding with family and friends, enjoying different activities, and challenging yourself, ending with creating wonderful memories.
Don’t forget to make a “to-do” list, this Ultimate Camping Checklist will get you started – if you’re well-prepared for the trip, nothing will surprise you, and you will be able to enjoy your holidays to the fullest. Keep in mind that you’re about to enter the kingdom of Mother Nature. Be respectful, don’t litter, and behave like a good guest. Hopefully, the tips listed above will help you plan the best camping trip that you will remember for years.