Planning a camping trip? Is it your first ever? Does the thought itself make you nervous? Have the urge but don’t know how to go about it.
Don’t worry, we have the answers. As a first-time camper, I had a magical experience which was layered with excitement, adventure and action. There was drama of being in the wilderness, the aura of hearing nothing but the crickets and the fox’s howl in the far away background, the morning cock to awaken; a camping trip makes you experience all this in one go.
But there were the basic questions and the inhibitions before I landed myself in this. What kind of camps, should I go through the online camping companies or not, is it safe for women travellers especially in India… these were some questions which played on my mind till I researched and came up with the perfect answer to all of these.
The top tips to keep in mind for a first time camping trip –
Choosing the location as per the weather –
This is the first step. Consider the weather feasibility before deciding the location. Some people are not very comfortable in cold places – don’t pick up a camping location where chill is a factor. Be aware of monsoon predictions. If you still land up in a place with unpredictable weather conditions, ensure you are armed with the right equipment. Umbrellas, waterproof clothing, raincoats. Or for cold weather, windcheaters, jackets for comfort.
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Camping sites –
Now this depends entirely on your bandwidth, adventure quotient and comfort level. I would suggest first time campers to experience it through tried and tested camping companies. Once you have the hang of it and are ready to go solo, then only invest in the tenting equipment. There are some known and safe camping companies which organise camping in various locations. Research, read up the reviews, talk to the organisers and then only sign up.
Carry a Survival Kit
Be prepared depending upon the kind of camping trip you are undertaking. Being prepared for all contingencies is the key to a successful camping trip. Equipment’s like survival knives, water purification bottles/tablets, flashlights, hand sanitizers, pee buddies for women, toilet roll, bug repellents etc are indispensable items. If you are with a camping company then most of these things get taken care of. Check with them and build up on your kit.
Beware of Getting Lost
This is something that an expert camping freak will always advise you. Don’t get misled. Back up chargers, compass and GPS enabled phones are a must. Have phone numbers handy in need of urgency. Understand your location and the neighbouring areas well before starting off.
Sleeping Bag is a necessity
The sleeping bag you are taking with you should be suitable for the conditions that exist at the camping destination. Carry an extra cushion if space permits. My experience as a first-time camper made me realise that however warm the days might be, the nights, especially from October till March, will be cool. Ensure you have an extra jacket, warm clothing and an extra blanket to cosy you up. Shivering through a cool night is just not comfortable. Ask your camping site for extras if you need.
 Return to base before Sunset
Pitching the camp before dark is one of the most significant tips for camping. The last thing one wants to encounter is getting lost while exploring the nearby areas too late in the night. Especially if the region is a first-time trek. Once you are familiar, then you can be a little adventurous but remember safety comes first.
Carry the right food
The last thing you want to do while on a camping trip is to get elaborate with food. Not only does it create a mess but also adds to your luggage. Carry finger foods, semi cooked meats and veggies which can be barbequed with ease. Energy bars, rice, ready to eats and juices. Now days, use and throw barbeque packs are easily available which are a treat for campers.
Other essentials
If you are tenting on your own, ensure you know how to pitch the tent well. Check on the sturdiness and the quality and carry essential equipment to fix it for emergency.
Sturdy hiking shoes and comfortable and light track pants and clothing is a given. No fancy fashion wear please!
Along with this carry lighter, utility bags, enough water, paper napkins, some cooking utensils-spatula, knife, spoon, towels, rain gear, personal accessories, dry shampoo, toilet paper, sunscreen, scissors, hand wipes, a fire extinguisher if you have the space (actually this is a must if you are traveling on your own), personal medications, antibacterial soap and a pepper spray for safety. Add to this list as per your needs.
Make your camping trip a memorable one. An experience worth the effort and the excitement. After all, gazing at the night sky with the millions of starts shining bright at you, the humming of the forest sounds and the warmth of the darkness around, can be a soul freshener!!