Do's and Don'ts of Camping

March 05, 2019

Camping can be a lot of fun! Immersed in the great outdoors, living off of the land and roughing it for a little while are all fun ways to reconnect with our self and with nature. But it’s best to be safe when camping. Knowing the do’s and don’ts of camping can give you a quick overview of how to have the most enjoyable camping experience possible.

Do’s and Don’ts of Camping:

Do

Pack lightly when it comes to clothing but only bring the necessities. Be sure to pack a few extra pairs of socks. Long sleeve and short sleeve loose fitting t-shirts. A change of clothing for the nighttime. One good, durable pair of shoes, preferably hiking boots or sneakers. A pair of jeans and a pair of shorts. A bandana for sweat. Don’t forget multiple changes of underwear! You will find the less clothing you pack the better.

Don’t

Over pack your bag. Camping isn’t a fashion show. It may feel like a vacation but it isn’t packing for candlelight dinners every night. (Although having a bonfire is a lot like candlelight!) Bringing accessories, tons of clothing and multiple pairs of shoes becomes cumbersome.

Do

Bring one hardy backpack, preferably a camping backpack. If it is waterproof, even better. Camping backpacks generally have straps and pockets to harness your sleeping bag and other camping essentials. You will be thanking yourself when you have free hands when hiking to your destination.

Don’t

Bring multiple backpacks and bags. The more you have to carry the heavier you will feel. Too much stuff weighs you down. Skip the purses and tote bags.

Do

Bring a few rolls of toilet paper. The disposable, biodegradable toilet paper works the best. It’s better for the environment and it is easier to dispose of. Bring two reusable towels with you. One for drying yourself and one for multiple purposes.

Don’t

Bring paper products, including paper towels and toilet paper that has to be disposed of in a trash receptacle. You don’t want to have to carry it back with you from your campsite and you certainly don’t want to dump it at your campsite.

Do

Bring a few firestarters with you. Fire is your best friend when camping in the wilderness. You need it for light, warmth and cooking.

Don’t

Only rely on tinder and firewood at your campsite location to start a fire. The land may be sparse, damp or the weather may change. Best to have backups for fire starting.

Do

Bring some fun outdoor activities. Fishing poles for food, a hammock to rest on, a good book to read, binoculars for bird watching, etc. There are so many exciting things to do in nature.

Don’t

Bring your electronics and gadgets with you. Camping can be dirty, dusty and damp. You don’t want to damage anything. Plus, it will feel good to take a break from the world of technology for a brief period.

Now that you know some of the important do’s and don’ts for your camping adventure, you can have a safe and happy journey into your next destination! Make the most of it and don’t let your everyday objects weigh you down!