Camping like a pro: 10 brilliant hacks to make your outdoor life easier
July 21, 2019
Camping is a beloved activity that lets us disconnect from the stress of everyday life and connect with nature. But let’s be honest, it’s not always easy. Setting up a tent, preparing food, and dealing with mosquitos can be challenging for even the most experienced camper. That’s why we’ve put together a list of 10 brilliant hacks to make your outdoor life easier.
From creating your own solar-powered lantern to keeping your food fresh without a cooler, these tips will have you camping like a pro in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the game, these hacks will make your next trip to the great outdoors a breeze. So, let’s dive in and see how you can make your camping experience more enjoyable!
1. Pack the right gear
When it comes to camping, having the right gear can make all the difference. You want to be prepared for anything that nature may throw your way, while also ensuring that you have everything you need to make the most of your time in the great outdoors.
One of the most important pieces of gear to consider is your tent. You want to make sure that you have a tent that is not only sturdy and waterproof but also large enough to comfortably accommodate you and your camping companions. A good sleeping bag is also essential for a good night’s sleep, along with a comfortable sleeping pad or air mattress.
Other important gear to consider when packing include a reliable camping stove and fuel, cooking utensils, a cooler for food storage, a headlamp or flashlight, insect repellent, a first aid kit, and appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather and terrain you’ll be encountering.
It’s also important to pack efficiently and strategically, making sure that you have easy access to the gear you’ll need most frequently. A good backpack or duffel bag can make all the difference in keeping your gear organized and easy to find. By packing the right gear and packing it smartly, you’ll be able to focus on enjoying the great outdoors and making lasting memories.
2. Prioritize lightweight and compact items
When it comes to camping, one of the most important things to consider is the weight and size of your gear. You don’t want to be lugging around heavy and bulky equipment, especially if you have a long hike ahead of you to your campsite. That’s why it’s essential to prioritize lightweight and compact items.
For instance, when choosing a tent, look for one that is lightweight and easy to set up. There are plenty of options on the market that are specifically designed for backpacking and camping, so do your research and find the right one for your needs. Similarly, your sleeping bag and mat should be lightweight and compact, so they don’t take up too much space in your backpack.
You can also prioritize lightweight and compact cooking equipment, such as a portable stove and mess kit. These items will allow you to cook up a hearty meal without taking up too much space in your backpack. And when it comes to clothing, choose lightweight, quick-drying fabrics that are easy to pack and won’t weigh you down.
By prioritizing lightweight and compact items, you’ll be able to pack everything you need without sacrificing comfort or adding unnecessary weight to your load. This will make your camping trip more enjoyable and allow you to explore the great outdoors with ease.
3. Plan your meals
When it comes to camping, planning your meals is an essential part of making your outdoor life easier. Preparing and packing your food in advance will save you time and hassle while you’re out in the wilderness. One of the best ways to plan your meals is by creating a menu for each day of your camping trip. This menu should take into account any dietary restrictions, the length of your trip, and the availability of cooking equipment.
If you’re planning on cooking your meals on a campfire or a portable stove, make sure to bring all the necessary utensils and cookware. Cast-iron pans and Dutch ovens are great for cooking over an open flame, and a good set of cooking utensils will make the process much easier.
Another great tip is to pre-chop and pre-cook your ingredients before you leave for your trip. This will save you time and space while camping, and also ensure that your food stays fresh and doesn’t spoil. You can also plan to cook meals that use similar ingredients, which will help you save space and reduce waste.
Finally, don’t forget to bring plenty of snacks and drinks to keep you fueled throughout the day. Trail mix, energy bars, and dried fruit are all great options, and don’t forget to bring plenty of water or a water filtration system. By planning your meals ahead of time, you’ll be able to enjoy your camping trip without worrying about what you’re going to eat.
4. Make a camping checklist
Making a camping checklist is a crucial step for any camping trip. It’s easy to forget important items when you’re packing for a trip, especially when you’re in the great outdoors. A checklist will help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t leave anything behind.
When creating your checklist, you should start with the basics like a tent, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment. From there, you can add items that are specific to your trip, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.
One helpful tip is to create different sections on your checklist. For example, you could have a section for cooking equipment, a section for personal items, and a section for clothing. This will help you stay organized and make it easier to pack everything.
Another helpful tip is to review your checklist a few days before your trip. This will give you time to purchase any items that you may have forgotten and ensure that everything is packed and ready to go.
Overall, a camping checklist is a simple and effective way to make sure that you have everything you need for your trip. It will help you stay organized, reduce stress, and ensure that you have a great time in the great outdoors.
5. Make use of natural resources
When camping, it’s important to make use of the natural resources around you. Not only does this help you to be more self-sufficient, but it also allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. There are many ways you can make use of natural resources when camping.
One of the most common ways is to collect firewood. Instead of buying firewood from a store, which can be expensive and may not be as dry as you would like, collect fallen branches and twigs from the forest floor. This is not only more cost-effective, but it also helps to keep the forest clean by removing debris.
If you’re camping near a stream or lake, you can also make use of the natural water source. Rather than carrying heavy water bottles, invest in a water filtration system or purification tablets to make sure the water is safe to drink.
You can also make use of natural resources when it comes to food. For example, you can forage for wild berries or mushrooms, catch fish from a nearby river or lake, or hunt for small game, such as rabbits or squirrels. Just make sure you have the necessary permits and licenses before hunting or fishing.
Overall, making use of natural resources is a great way to enhance your camping experience. Not only does it save you money and reduce waste, but it also allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of nature.
6. Keep your campsite organized
When you’re camping, keeping your campsite organized is essential. It will not only make your life easier in terms of finding things when you need them, but it will also make your camping experience more enjoyable. One of the best ways to keep your campsite organized is to use a separate storage system for all your gear and equipment. You can use plastic storage containers or even camping-specific storage bags to keep everything neatly organized and easy to access.
Another great hack is to create a designated cooking area. This can be as simple as using a foldable table or even just a flat piece of wood to make sure that your stove, cookware, and utensils are all in one place. This will not only keep your cooking area neat and organized but will also make meal prep and cooking much more efficient.
You can also create a separate area for your dirty dishes and trash. Using a trash bag holder or a designated bin for your trash will ensure that your campsite stays clean and tidy. Additionally, using a dishwashing station with a basin, soap, and scrubber will prevent dirty dishes from piling up and keep your campsite hygienic.
Lastly, create a system for your clothes and personal items. Hanging a clothesline or using a clothes drying rack will keep your clothes and towels organized and dry. You can also use a hanging shelf or a hanging organizer to keep your personal items such as toiletries, books, and electronics off the ground and easily accessible. By keeping your campsite organized, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your time in the great outdoors.
7. Build a campfire safely
Building a campfire can be a fun and memorable experience while camping, but it can also be dangerous if not done properly. Before starting a campfire, it’s important to check if there are any fire restrictions in the area. If there are none, then you can proceed.
First, choose a flat and level spot away from any trees, bushes, or dry grass. Clear the area of all debris and dig a shallow pit for the fire. Surround the pit with rocks to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading.
When starting the fire, use only dry wood and kindling. Don’t use flammable liquids such as gasoline or lighter fluid as they can cause an explosive fire. Instead, use a firestarter or matches to start the fire.
After the fire is burning, make sure to keep a close eye on it at all times and never leave it unattended. Always have a bucket of water or sand nearby to put out the fire when you’re done.
Remember to never put any trash or food in the fire pit, and always properly dispose of any ashes or debris after the fire is out. With these safety tips in mind, you can enjoy a cozy and safe campfire experience during your outdoor adventures.
8. Use technology to enhance your camping experience
When it comes to camping, some people prefer to completely disconnect from technology and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. However, if you’re someone who wants to enhance their camping experience with technology, there are many tools and gadgets available that can make your trip easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
One example is a portable battery charger. These devices can keep your phone, tablet, or other gadgets charged while you’re out in the wilderness. You can also bring a portable Bluetooth speaker to play music or podcasts while you’re relaxing in your campsite.
Another helpful tool is a GPS device or app. This can help you navigate trails and keep track of your location, especially if you’re hiking in unfamiliar territory. Some GPS devices even allow you to mark locations, such as your campsite or a scenic lookout, so you can easily find your way back.
If you’re camping in an area with limited cell service, a two-way radio can be a lifesaver. These radios allow you to communicate with your camping partners without relying on a cell signal.
Finally, there are many camping apps available that can help you plan your trip, find nearby campsites, and even identify wildlife. Some apps also provide tips on outdoor survival skills, such as building a fire or treating a snake bite.
Overall, using technology can be a great way to enhance your camping experience, as long as you don’t let it detract from the natural beauty around you.
9. Make sure you have enough lighting
One of the most important things to consider when camping is lighting. You don’t want to be left in the dark, especially when trying to navigate your way around the campsite or trying to locate something in your tent.
Investing in a good quality flashlight or lantern is a must. LED lanterns are a great option as they are energy-efficient and provide bright white light. You can also consider getting a headlamp so that your hands are free while walking around in the dark.
Another great hack is to hang a string of battery-powered fairy lights around your tent or campsite. Not only will they provide a warm and cozy atmosphere, but they will also help you navigate your way around the campsite at night. If you’re camping with kids, they will love the magical feel of fairy lights.
Don’t forget to bring extra batteries or a portable charger to keep your lights running for the duration of your trip. With proper lighting, you can enjoy your camping experience, even after the sun has set!
10. Leave no trace behind
Camping is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. But with so many people camping in the same areas, it’s important to be mindful of the impact we have on the environment. This is where the Leave No Trace principle comes in. It’s a set of guidelines that ensures that we minimize our impact on the environment so that others can enjoy the same experience in the future.
One of the most important things you can do is to pack out everything that you bring in. This means taking your trash with you and disposing of it properly. Don’t leave any food scraps or waste behind either, as this can attract wildlife and disrupt the ecosystem.
Another important aspect of Leave No Trace is to be mindful of where you camp. Stick to designated camping areas and avoid setting up camp in fragile environments such as meadows, wetlands, or near bodies of water. Try to minimize your impact on the surroundings by staying on established trails and avoiding trampling on vegetation.
When it comes to campfires, make sure to use designated fire rings and keep the fire small. And of course, always make sure to put out the fire completely before leaving the area.
By following the Leave No Trace principles, we can ensure that we leave the environment just as we found it, or even better. Not only does this help to preserve the natural beauty of the outdoors, but it also ensures that future generations can enjoy it too.