Camping Starter Guide

Tips to Ensure You Have the Best Camping Trip Ever!

Are you ready to trade the humdrum of daily life for the serenity of the great outdoors? Whether you’re a seasoned camper or embarking on your first adventure, preparation is the secret ingredient to a memorable camping trip. Here’s your ultimate guide to ensuring your next camping excursion is nothing short of amazing.

1. Choose Your Destination Wisely

Where you camp can make or break your experience. Research potential locations, check the weather forecast, and ensure your chosen campsite has the facilities you need—whether it’s clean water, restrooms, or trails for exploration. The right spot can set the perfect backdrop for your adventure! Be sure to make your reservations early, especially in the Summer!

Do research on the site you want. Some suggestions to take into consideration:

·       Do you want to be close to the Bathhouse or a Playground for the kids? Are you OK with a lot of foot traffic and are you a light sleeper?

·       Do you want/need electric and/or water on your site? Some campgrounds have tents only sections and walk-in sections that usually don’t have electricity and water.

2. Have the right Gear

A smooth camping trip starts with reliable equipment. A sturdy tent, a cozy sleeping bag, and dependable cooking tools are your essentials. Don't have any equipment, but really want to give camping a try? That’s OK! That’s where Camping Ala Carte can help. We have a ton of camping rental equipment for you to choose from.

Match up the gear needed with the type of trip you’re taking. Are you looking for a full amenities’ campground or an off-grid spot?

The size of the tent you bring depends on how much room you want to move around, what you want to keep in your tent, and the size of the bedding you want. Are you just sleeping on the floor with sleeping bags or do you want a thick queen-size air mattress and some room to move around? A tent may say it is a 2-person tent but do some research; that may be 2 people sleeping on foam pads on the ground and that is it. With tents I usually like to go bigger than I think I need.

Here are some tips and suggestions to consider when putting together a list of camping gear you will want and need for your trip:

• Does your site have a firepit or grill? How do you plan to cook? Do you need/want to rent a charcoal or propane grill? How about cookware? Consider what food you plan on making to determine what kind of cookware you will need.

• Does your site have a picnic table included? If not, you may want to rent a foldable table.

• If your site has electricity, will you need an extension cord and/or yard stake to plug in various items?

• Does your campground have a full bathhouse with showers? If not be sure to rent a portable outdoor shower. Don’t forget the bath towels!

3. Pack Smartly

Preparation is key when it comes to packing. Be sure to include:

·       Clothing for various weather conditions

o   Consider what your plans are while camping. Are you hanging around the site most of the time or planning on swimming or hiking? Will you need swimsuits and towels? How about renting a beach umbrella for shade? Hiking boots, poles and a backpack? We have you covered for that!

·       A first-aid kit

·       Ample provisions like food and water

·       Handy items such as a flashlight, extra batteries, and a map of the area

Check out our Camping Checklist Blog for a complete checklist of all the things you may want or need for your trip.

We pack most of our equipment in totes to protect it and keep it dry – if you’d like one for your clothes just ask, if we have extra, we can send an empty one with you.

Think of your packing list as your survival toolkit—leave no essential behind!

4. Respect Nature

Camping is about connecting with the beauty of the outdoors, and respecting nature is part of the experience. Follow the principles of “leave no trace,” ensuring you clean up after yourself.

·       Set up your tent on previously camped surfaces to not damage surrounding trees and plants.

·       Be sure to bring or buy (we have them for sale) garbage bags for your trash. Be smart about leaving your garbage – we put ours in the trunk of our car every night. Sometimes it is best to just empty your garbage every night before bed in the campground’s garbage bins. Some campgrounds have metal boxes to store your food in also.

·       DO NOT FEED WILDLIFE – NONE! The cute little chipmunks and squirrels that come around during the day means the raccoons and possibly bears will come check out what’s left at night. NEVER bring food into your tent – all wildlife will smell it. We had a small chipmunk chew a hole through our tent once to get to an open bag of trail mix!

·       Leave the wildlife alone! They are there to been seen and enjoyed and we have all seen a news story where someone thinks they are Dr. Dolittle and wants a close-up picture and it does not end well!

 Stick to campfire safety guidelines and always maintain a safe distance from wildlife. By preserving the natural environment, you’re helping others enjoy it, too.

·       Before your trip be sure to read up on any current fire restrictions and check with the campground itself about regulations regarding fires.

5. Embrace the Adventure

Finally, remember to take it all in. Camping is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey. Share stories by the campfire, hike through scenic trails, and savor moments of quiet under the stars. These are the experiences that create lifelong memories.

Camping offers a unique opportunity to unplug, recharge, and reconnect—with nature and with yourself. By planning carefully, packing wisely, and respecting the environment, your trip will be one to cherish. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear and get ready to explore the wonders waiting for you in the great outdoors. Adventure awaits!

PS: As a safety measure – always leave your itinerary with a family member or friends back home.