Some camping tips can be over the top. When really heading to the hills on a camping trip is all about getting back to basics; leaving the strain of the modern world behind and decompressing among Mother Nature's glorious bounty. No screens, no deadlines, no 24-hour news cycle. Just you, your friends, your backpacks, and the wilderness. Pure simplicity. That's why we love it.
That said, there's a lot of unnecessary machismo around camping. Some people seem to think that camping has to involve at least a little bit of suffering. And if it doesn't, you're not doing it right. But I, for one, don't subscribe to these theory. I love getting back to basics, I love being one with nature but I also love being comfortable, warm, and safe. And what do you know? It is possible to have it all.
Here 3 camping tips for maintaining maximum comfort
(without breaking the bank or spoiling the adventure):
1. Don't skimp on your gear
Even if you're sleeping on a Caribbean beach, the key to camping is all about being prepared for the conditions. When you're out in the hills and the sun falls below the trees, the night can get cold quickly. That's why the first of our camping tips is about investing in good gear.
I know camping can seem like an expensive hobby, but that's only true when you take a short-term approach. A good multi-season sleeping bag might cost you well over $100, which sounds expensive. But if you look after it well there is absolutely no reason it won't last you for years and years.
And if having a comfortable sleeping bag
The same goes for a solid, well-made tent
Camping is definitely one of those pastimes where spending a little more initially can pay big dividends down the road. And in most cases we're only talking about a little bit more money for better quality. The difference between a standard sleeping bag and a good one is pretty much the cost of a meal out. Stay in this weekend, have a sandwich, and spend the savings on good gear that can go with you practically anywhere.
2. Think of your sleep
Nothing can ruin a camping trip quite like a sleepless night spent tossing and turning. Not only will that evening be spoiled but so will the following day. You'll have bags under your eyes bigger than a sleeping bag and likely be so grumpy that fellow campers will secretly hope you become a bear snack! More important, when you're tired you're more prone to make mistakes, lose your footing, or get injured.
So getting sufficient sleep in the woods is not only for the benefit of your enjoyment, it's also a health and safety issue. Fortunately, I have camping tips for that too. And the good news is there are a heap of things you can do to improve your odds of getting a good night's rest when camping. I recommend you start by bringing something comfortable to sleep on
It sounds completely obvious but you'd be surprised by how many first timers show up with a wimpy grocery store roll mat. You're sure to impress no one, least of all your back, by sleeping on one of those underwhelming pads. Camping technology has come along way, and now you can find lightweight roll mats
If you already have an inflatable bed and find that's not the most comfortable, then have a look at this handy guide on what you can do to primp it up before you pump it up.
3. Always stay dry
This is possibly the most important of my camping tips. Can you imagine being more uncomfortable than when you're deep in the woods, realizing every single piece of clothing you have is wet? It might not be a problem during the day when sunshine and body heat is working in your favor but when you lay down at night, however, things are going to get cold quick.
The solution is to always have an extra pair of dry clothes to change into at night. But don't just trust that your backpack will keep clothes dry either. Most backpacks are not 100% waterproof, so you'll be in trouble if the heavens open or you somehow drop your bag in the creek. It happens. More than you think.
Instead dry sack
And there you have it, camping fans-three camping tips to improve your comfort and safety during your next camping trip. Remember the woods are fun, but they also demand our respect. Conditions can change quickly, and it's up to you to be prepared. All you need is good gear and a sensible head on your shoulders.
What are your favorite camping tips for enjoying the great outdoors?
About the Author: Sarah Cummings is a freelance writer. When she's not writing about sleep or practising yoga on the beach, you can find her hiking to new camping spots. She and her family are definitely adrenalin junkies who love nothing more than spending time in the Great Outdoors!
About A Week at the Beach
Travel blog sharing tips and stories from around the world.
