The Beginner’s Guide To Camping

Camping can be a great way to escape from the daily grind. With a little planning, you’ll feel in control and confident of your trip. You can enjoy a relaxing getaway with your family or an exciting adventure in the great outdoors.

You can learn a lot about camping by just jumping in. It’s important to keep in mind that camping trips rarely go according to plan. Start by familiarising yourself with the basics of camping and begin to create memories that will make you a better camper.

Get ready for your first camping trip by following these helpful tips.

How to Start Camping

It is important to choose a camping shelter that will keep you warm, dry and safe. The choice of whether to camp in a tent, or if you want to use an alternative accommodation will determine how comfortable and safe it is. Tents make a great option for beginners because they’re portable and adaptable.

There are tents of all shapes and sizes with different degrees of weather protection. Some tents are made for solo travellers, while others offer multiple rooms to accommodate the entire family. Consider the following before selecting a tent for your very first camping trip:

• Your need. Tents may be suitable for beginners, but they are not for everyone. Most campers prefer tents, but older adults and those who have difficulty sleeping on the floor should look for more comfortable options. Some tents are not suitable for children or pets that can be rambunctious.
• The Weather: Tents don’t have air conditioning or heaters. You can use a battery-operated air conditioner or pitch your tent under the shade for hot weather camping. However, some people prefer not to camp in the heat. The cold temperatures can be a major deterrent. Tent heaters can be purchased, but they must adhere to strict safety guidelines. They may not work in all situations.
• Your Experience: If camping is something you’ve never done before, the best place to begin would be to learn how to set up a tent. Some tents may be more complex than others and require additional training or assistance. Before you go camping, read the instructions and watch some videos on how to use your tent.

Tips on Pitching a Tent

The tent assembly process depends on the type of tent, where it is being assembled and what accessories and add-ons you use.

Here are some tips to help you set up your tent if you’re a first-time camper:

• Know the type of tent you have: To assemble your unit correctly, you must know what kind you own. Other tents are also available. Consult your tent’s owner’s guide for more information.
• Select a level spot. Your tent should be pitched on a flat surface, preferably in the shade and away from fire pits, mud, tree roots, or rocks. Avoid putting up your tent in places where rainwater could collect and seep into the tent.. Spacious and level, it makes it easy to set up your camp.
• Pack extra stakes if you are using them to secure a tent or tarp. Stakes are a tripping hazard, so be sure to place them deep in the ground.
• Use a tarp at all times: Even if you are aware that rain is not expected, it’s best to be prepared in case of a sudden drizzle. A tarp will protect your tent against the elements. This is also great for summer camping, as it will prevent your tent from getting too hot.
• Make your tent more comfortable: Choose a unit that has a window to allow airflow and light. You can create the perfect sleeping environment by bringing along a tent-safe fan or battery-operated heater. Sleeping on a sleeping pad, inflatable mattress, or cot will keep you warm, dry, and reduce the likelihood of waking up with muscle pain. When shopping, look for tents that are water-resistant and use a tarp to cover the tent’s roof for extra rain protection.

Tent Camping vs. Accommodation Options

Do you want to know how tent camping compares with other options for lodging? Both tents and other lodging options have advantages. Here’s what you should know.

• Cabins are furnished shelters that have been enclosed, like the ones at Kampgrounds of America. The level and type of furnishings will depend on the kind of cabin that you rent for your stay. Camping Cabins, for example, have electricity, beds and private bathrooms, while Deluxe Cabins offer similar features. You may be able to get a TV or a kitchenette, depending on the location and availability. The Deluxe Cabins or Camping Cabins offer a great lodging option for families and friends who are just starting to learn how to camp and aren’t quite ready to leap into tent camping. These are great options for those who are celebrating an event or simply want to leave their tent gear behind.
• Glamping has become increasingly popular. According to the 2019 North American Camping Report, 45% said that they would like to experience glamping shortly. Glamping is appealing to beginners because it’s easy and unique. Glamping Tents come with all the necessary furnishings and decor inside. Other unique accommodations, such as renovated cabooses and yurts, are also available for glamping. To learn more about glamping.
• RVing offers the same level of flexibility as tents, but without having to put one together. RVS can be used in all weather conditions and, as a means of transportation, can be Back-In, Pull-Thru or have full hookups. These RVS are perfect for families that travel frequently. RVS are more difficult to set up than tents and require a little experience in plumbing, electrical and automobile issues. Also, they require regular servicing and maintenance. You can test-drive an RV before buying one by renting it for a camping trip.

Always practice good camping etiquette. This means that if you’re camping with others, it is important to keep the volume low at night and in the early morning hours and not shine flashlights towards other campsites. You can also follow the Leave No Trace principles by cleaning up your campsite and leaving it better than when you arrived.

How to Choose a Location for Your First Camping Trip

The most important tip for first-time campers is to pick the right place. If you’re still learning about camping, it’s a good idea for someone to camp at a campground, which has clean bathrooms and laundry facilities.

When choosing a campsite, always consider the following:

• Your goals: Ask yourself what you want to achieve by going camping. Are you going to visit historical sites or see new places? Do you want to spend time in nature or with your loved ones? You can choose the right location based on your camping goals.
• Season: Select the best location for the season. Consider the weather, including possible rain, temperature, and scenic views. Also, consider your comfort level with climates.
• Accessibility of campsites: When travelling with children, certain camping sites — such as those that require mountain hikes or backpacking excursions — can be too difficult for beginners. Select a location that’s accessible to all members of your group.

You need to decide whether you prefer to stay near home or go far away before you book your campsite stay.

The Benefits of Living Close to Home

More than half of the surveyed campers travel. Popular locations include national and state parks, tourist hotspots and cities with vibrant cultural scenes.

Explore faraway places and enjoy the following benefits:

• The new places you visit will bring you new experiences. They may include different types of wildlife, cultural attractions and regional cuisine.
• Enjoy different perspectives on long road trips and aeroplane flights.
• Meet new people in other parts of the country.
• You can justify a longer vacation by travelling farther distances.
• You can decide whether you want to move to a city or state by visiting it and seeing the scenery.
• Has more than 500 locations in North America, so you can be sure to find one near you.

Camping Essentials for Beginners

Knowing what to pack and how to use the items is key to a successful camping trip. It is a good idea to create a printable list for first-time camping essentials. This will help you keep track of your items and ensure that nothing important has been forgotten.

What to bring

The following is a list of essential camping equipment for beginners:

Sleeping Gear

Bring everything you will need to sleep well, such as sleeping bags, blankets and sleeping pads. You can also bring an inflatable mattress, a cot or other sleeping equipment. Bring your favourite pillows from home so that your body can adjust to the new sleeping arrangement. Many new campers find that eye masks and white noise machines help them fall asleep faster.

The type of sleeping bag you need depends on the weather conditions, such as whether it is wet or not and what temperature you can tolerate. Sleeping bags that are thin are best for warm weather, while other sleeping bags are made for colder temperatures. Check the labels of the sleeping bags you purchase before purchasing them if you plan to stay in ice or snow. Bring more blankets for winter camping than you think you’ll need.

Camping Needs

Your campsite will be well-lit with headlamps, flashlights or lanterns. You can also use outdoor lighting such as torches, LED tube lights, or LED tubes. A few bundles of approved firewood will be needed, as well as a cooler with ice and water, matches, lighters and a fire starter.

Bring extra batteries for your lamps and flashlights, just in case. Also, a portable charger or power bank for your phone or any other device is a good thing to have. You may also need to purchase a Wi-Fi extension device or other similar devices if reception will be poor.

Furniture and Decor

Camping chairs, tablecloths, and clips for plastic tablecloths are all great additions to any campsite. Also, consider adding small tables, portable rain shelters, and insect-repellant candlesticks. A rug outside will catch dirt, grass and other debris before you enter your RV, tent or cabin.

Needed Items

You should also bring toiletries and hygiene products, such as soap, shampoo and shower shoes. Also, don’t forget your toothbrush, toothpaste, and contact lens solution. A soft robe or slippers can also be very comfortable.

Cleaning Supplies

Don’t forget to clean your campsite before and after every meal. If necessary, bring trash bags, cleaning wipes and paper towels.

Personal Belongings

Included in your personal belongings are your wallet, cash, lip balm, and any permits or licenses you may need for camping or hiking. Pack any event tickets or parking permits you intend to use.

Safety Equipment

Keep yourself safe by packing an insect repellent, water bottle, sunblock, first aid kit, and portable fire extinguisher. If you are planning to explore new areas, a local field guide can be very useful.

Kitchen Supplies

Bring essential kitchen items, such as pans, tongs and spatulas. If you want to cook over the fire, bring a grill grate, coffee percolators, roasting forks and dishes. Be sure to bring pots and saucepans that are suitable for camping and will withstand cooking on an open fire or in any other way you intend to prepare meals.

Pet Supplies or Children’s Products

You will need to pack their belongings if you’re camping with a pet or a child. This includes a leash, harness, food bowls and water, toys, an emergency pet kit, identification tags, bedding, and vaccination records. Toys, first-aid kits, child-friendly foods, a portable crib, a play area, and a stroller or portable crib, depending on the age of your children, are all necessary for them.

What to Wear

Your clothing choices are largely influenced by where you’re going, what season it is and the weather conditions. You also need to consider your planned activities.

• Rain gear includes boots, an umbrella, and a water-resistant coat.
• Layering light pieces such as long-sleeved shirts, lightweight tops, underclothes, and jackets.
• Extra socks and underwear
• Swimsuits and swim trunks are worn with flip-flops or sandals.
• Weather-dependent, wear a sunhat, beanie or visor.
• All activities require shoes, from hiking boots to comfortable walking sneakers.
• Winter clothing – if necessary, includes thermal layers, gloves and a scarf. Also, wear thick socks, long pants, and an insulated jacket.

Plan Your Camping Meals

Plan your meals to make cooking at camp easier and save you time. You can stick to your budget and plan. When planning your meals, think about the on-site restaurants or local eateries you would like to visit while exploring.

Camping Must-Haves

No matter which recipe you decide to prepare, there are a few essentials for camp cooking that every camper should carry:

• Essentials for cooking: Ingredients such as seasoning blends (salt, pepper, dried herbs), spices, cooking oils, dry herbs, salt, and pepper will add flavour to your food. Select your essentials according to your meal plan. If you are planning to grill or barbecue meats, then you might want to pack barbecue sauce or rubs.
• Snacks: Pick non-perishable snack items that are easy to transport, such as popcorn or kettle corn, jerky or trail mix, pretzels or chips, cereals, granola, or ingredients for s’mores.
• Meal staplesProteins and starches will keep you energised and full. Most popular camping meals include potatoes, eggs and other foods like grilled meats and breakfast meats. They also include fresh fruits and vegetables, sandwiches, soups and canned beans, as well as bottled water and soft drinks.

Plan Your Meals: Tips and Tricks

Use these tips to plan your meals easily:

• Take into account dietary preferences. If you’re camping in a group, take into consideration everyone’s preferences.
• Prepare before you leave: Save space and time on the campsite by preparing what you can. Prepare a quick breakfast by cutting, de-seeding and coring fresh fruit and vegetables. Mix up some omelette-like ingredients and pour and cook.
• Use containers for storage: Zip bags and plastic food storage containers are perfect for storing and securing pre-prepared meals in your cooler.
• Select ingredients that can be used for multiple purposes: Choose recipes with similar ingredients, such as potatoes, a sauce or fresh vegetables, to simplify preparation and save space in your food storage container or cooler.
• Add extras and snacks. You will be more active, especially if outdoor activities are involved. Plan high-energy snacks to keep you energised.

First-time campers: Tips for first-time campers

Your first camping trip will be a memorable experience for everyone if you plan. These tips for beginners will help you get the most out of your camping trip.

1. Test New Gear at Home

You should always try out new equipment at home, whether you’re a novice or seasoned camper. You can assemble your tent in the yard to practice and make sure that everything works. This will make it easier for you to put together your tent when you arrive at the campsite.

Be sure that your sleeping bag is comfortable, and all of your flashlights, lanterns, and headlamps are working. Just in case, pack extra batteries. Test out your portable grill or stove before you use it. Also, make sure that all daypacks and hiking backpacks fit snugly on your back. Make adjustments as necessary.

2. Celebrate a Milestone Event

Camping is a great way to celebrate anniversaries, milestones, and vacations.

• Birthday Parties
• Celebrate your anniversary and romance with a romantic getaway.
• Bachelor and bachelorette Parties
• Bridal showers and baby showers
• Reunions of family or friends.

Find out more about the group accommodations, policies and facilities available at your campground by contacting them.

3. Enjoy Camping All Year Long

Camping in the Summer

• Summer: Although you may imagine hot summer days, you should not be afraid to camp in other seasons. Although the summer sun makes it ideal for watersports and swimming, spring, fall and winter all have their advantages.
• Spring: Cool temperatures and blooming flowers in spring camping trips provide sightseers with scenic views as well as comfortable touring temperatures.
• Autumn: Autumn leaves and cozy campfires – is there a better way to spend an autumn day? Autumn camping can also be the perfect weather to go on long hikes.
• Winter: Camping in the winter is a great way to experience new wildlife. Warm Camping Cabins and all-season tents will keep you warm after a day of fun snow sports like skiing, snowboarding or snowmobiling.

4. Bring Games and Recreational Gear

Don’t forget the equipment and gear you need for outdoor or indoor activities. It may take some time to find the perfect recreational activities for your camping trip, especially if it’s your first. Try to stay somewhere where you can try out as many different things as possible.

Outdoor activities are popular among many campers.

• Hiking
• Fishing
• Sightseeing
• Biking
• Bird Watching
• Canoeing, kayaking and boating
• Backpacking
• Trail Running
• Watersports
• Horseback riding
• Rock climbing

Enjoy lawn games at yourcampsitee such as ladder ball, horseshoes and yard bowling. Pack rainy-day activities like books, cards and board games.

5. Check Campground Guidelines

Always obey all campground rules. They are there for your safety and the safety of others. Many campgrounds have standard requirements for:

• Parking on site and the number of vehicles.
• Visitors who are not registered.
• Type a behaviour of pets
• Excessive noise during quiet hours.
• Keep your campsite clean and tidy.

You can contact the campground to confirm any details before making a reservation.

6. Try new things and learn new skills

It’s easy to plan too much or schedule your activities as you prepare for camping, assemble a packing list and consult local guides. It is more fun to let some spontaneity and adventure into your camping trip. It is important to have all the necessary gear to ensure your safety and comfort, but you should also embrace those unexpected moments, such as a hike, a meal shared with friends, or learning a new hobby or skill while on vacation.

7. Take the kids camping

You may have heard sad statistics about children spending excessive time in front of screens and losing recess at school.

• Americans spend about 9 out of 0% of their time indoors.
• Children aged 8-18 are spending 50+ hours per week on a digital device.
• Only 6% of 9-13-year-old children spend their time outside alone in a typical week.

What if I haven’t gone camping before? You might want to take your children camping if you’re like most parents who were not raised in “camping families.” Camping is a good way to get your kids outdoors. Daydreaming about singing by the fire, climbing rocks and splashing around in streams might be a great way to do it. You would chase fireflies, roast marshmallows and listen to owls sing you to sleep.

You might realise quickly that when you begin your camping trip. You might not need to purchase a sleeping bag if you choose to stay in one of our Camping Cabins or Deluxe Cabins. This “Camping for Beginners Guide” can help you choose what to bring and how.