A Beginner's Guide to Camping

So, you are all excited for your first adventure but you have no clue about camping stuff. Don't worry! We have created a simple yet comprehensive guide and a checklist that will make you feel like an expert.

Planning a camping trip

Location:

Choose a place closer to your home so that you are not driving for hours and spend more time hiking or walking in the area. Also, you will be close to market or town if you forgot something. It may also be easier to get back home in case if you absolutely regret your plan of camping.

Keep an eyes on the weather forecast - Although no one can guarantee the weather conditions but it will still give you an idea on what to pack and how hot/cold it will be. It is highly recommended to cancel or postpone you trip if there are chances of storm - believe us - it is no fun camping in the storm specially if its your first time.

Be familiar with the camping ground rules and timings.

Do your research on the wildlife in that area - Be Bear Aware! if you are camping in North America.

Bring cash - some camping site do not accept cards for fire woods etc.

Duration:

For the best camping experience, plan to stay for at least 2 nights - it will give you enough time to explore the surroundings and recharge yourself.

Aim for the weekdays rather than weekends to avoid the rush, if possible.

“Camping: The art of getting closer to nature while getting farther away from the nearest cold beverage, hot shower, and flush toilet.” - Anonymous

Know you gears and get the right ones!

Choosing the right size of tent is very important. Make sure you are aware of the type of the tent, size and how to set it up.

Always go for a bigger size to be more comfortable and get that extra space you might need to keep your stuff.

Practice and get comfortable with your gears such as tent, air mattress, sleeping bags, stove, lanterns and other gears.

Plan your meals

After a long day of hiking or driving you will be carving for food. Planning your meals not only saves you a lot of time and energy but will help you to narrow down your food list.

Think about:

• How many meals you will be cooking

• How many people will be eating

• Do you prefer ready to eat/precooked meals or would like to cook from the scratch

• Make a list of recipes and ingredients requires

Checklists

There is nothing terrible than reaching your camp site to find out that you forgot tent pegs or frying pan or fire starting kit. Checklists are going to be your new best friend ever - so don't be embarrassed about using one.

Still forget something? Don't worry - we all do! Fellow campers are usually very helpful in such cases don't be shy to ask for help.

Have Fun

Take this time as a chance to completely unplug, and reconnect with the mighty nature. Whether you go alone or with friends or family, its a great time to go for a hike, walk on the beach, bonfire, or play a game of cards. Whatever you decide to do, everything is fun while camping.

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