Summer is in full swing, and with it comes family vacations, water fun, and of course camping trips. But when it comes to camping, what essentials do you need to bring, and what things should you consider when planning a camping trip?
1 in 5 Americans ventured out into the great outdoors on a camping trip in 2021 and that number is on the rise, so if you are considering taking the family camping this year, continue reading our 4 tips for planning the ultimate camping trip.
1. Research and Reserve
The last thing you want is to arrive at a campground with the family only to find out that they don’t allow pets and have nothing to offer for the little ones, so plan ahead. There are tons of great campgrounds out there that are kid and pet friendly and have plenty of activities to entertain throughout your trip.
You will find a variety of fun at a KOA campground that includes bingo, bicycling, fishing, swimming, arts and crafts, and even live entertainment on the weekends. There is even a fenced-in play area for your furry friends to run around in.
If you are more of the ‘roughing it type’ and prefer camping away from everyone, then a KOA may not be the right campground for you. Make sure you check out campground maps to see how close the sites are to one another.
Some can be quite crowded and may not be ideal if you are looking to be located by as few people as possible. Then reserve your site at least 3 weeks or more ahead of time.
2. Equipment for Camping Trip
There’s a reason why so many choose tent camping: It’s cheaper! Make sure to find one that is of good quality, will last, and is pet friendly, ensuring you years of camping fun.
You are also going to want to make sure you have these must-haves on your packing list:
- Sleeping bags and pillows
- Flashlights, lanterns, and extra batteries
- Toiletries and personal items
- Cooking utensils
- Firestarters and matches or lighter
- Cleaning supplies and trash bags
- Clothes, hiking boots, and packs
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- First aid kit
- Games
- Marshmallows
It also wouldn’t hurt to pack a tarp for your tent either in case of rain. Though most tents are waterproof, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
3. Plan and Prep your Food
Knowing ahead of time what meals you will eat on your camping trip will save you time and headaches. Have a cooler full of ice to keep raw meats cold until the time comes to prepare them.
The best kind of food to cook on your camp outings are the tin foil packet meals. These are great to prepare ahead of time, and you can even cook breakfast in them. There are loads of recipes online, or you can create your own tin foil packet meals using whatever appeases you and your family.
4. Tell Others Where You Are
If you plan to go camping far from home or off-trail camping, it is a good idea to tell a friend or other family members where you will be. Make sure to give them the number to the campground or the local police department should something happen.
Accidents happen, and you can never be too careful when hiking and camping in unfamiliar territories, so have a plan and keep in touch.
Leave No Trace
Whether you are a pro camper, a beginner camper, or somewhere in between, there is always something you can take away when on a camping trip, but the most important thing is that you leave nature as you found it.
Be respectful to the living creatures around you and to the area in which you are staying, because we only have one chance to make our planet the best it can be for generations to come. If you enjoyed this article on tips for planning a camping trip, then check out our other great blogs.