It is important to make your first car camping trip a success. You’ll be sitting around a campfire in no time.  But there is a lot of planning to make the trip go off without a hitch!  Preparation is key, so here are some tips for a successful trip.

Tent Camping Outdoors Hiking

Camping is an easy way to take a break from your everyday life. There’s nothing worse though than getting to your destination to find you’ve forgotten to the bug spray. That’s why planning is an essential part of camping in a car.

Where are you going?

There’re lots of websites and apps where you can get ideas. One you may find useful is Plan Poland. Things to think about when choosing your destination include:

  1. What do you want? Do you want to be near water or mountains? Do you want hiking opportunities? Do you want to stargaze?
  2. Do you need a permit? It isn’t possible to camp in forests, Baltic beaches, or in national parks. If you’re going to camp in these areas, you’ll need to apply for permission. 
  3. Are there any restrictions? This is especially important if you plan to have a fire.
  4. Is there a charge for camping at the destination? If there is, check where you pay when you are making your booking.
  5. Do you know how to get there? The journey is part of the experience, so enjoy the drive. Stop and see any beautiful spots along the way. 
  6. Check what amenities the campsite has. Many places have potable water, kitchen facilities, bathrooms, and picnic tables. 

Planned Activities

It may be that what you want is to relax with a book. Activities don’t mean you need to break a sweat.

Whether you want to relax or be active, remember to be flexible. Check the weather while planning to ensure your activities are the right ones.

What you need

When planning your automobile camping trip, check you have everything you’ll need. Being outdoors doesn’t mean you have to be uncomfortable.  It’s a good idea to print out a checklist.

Gear

If this is your first time camping, it’s a good idea to see what you can borrow or hire. The essentials are all sleep and shelter related. You’ll need a tent, sleeping bag, and pillow. It’s a good idea to have a sleeping pad. You’ll also need chairs, a lantern, a multi-tool, a cord, and a hammer.    

What’s for supper?

You’ll need to take most of your food with you. Spend some time planning your menu, and remember to include snacks. Apart from food, the basics you’re going to need are a camping stove, pots, pans, cooking utensils, cutlery, and crockery. Don’t forget the can opener. Check whether there is potable water on-site, or whether you should bring your own.

Clothes & Toiletries

When you’re learning how to plan a camping trip remember that it gets cold. Having the right clothes means you’ll be comfortable. Pack clothes that are quick drying. Make sure you have boots or shoes that suit the environment. The last must-have item is an insulated jacket. You’ll need the usual toiletries, but make sure everything is biodegradable.

Safety

Safety is an essential part of any car camping trip. Before leaving, ensure you have checked your car is in good condition and will get you there and back. If your vehicle isn’t in great shape, it’s worth visiting Did You Know Cars. 

Safety is about more than your car. You also need to be aware of any risks that come with the campsite. These can include local wildlife, so make a habit of securing your food and your food waste.

Responsible Camping

It’s a terrible experience to get to a campsite and find litter. Make sure you leave no trace of your camping trip behind when you leave. You’ll need to include rubbish bags in your checklist. Also, use biodegradable products throughout your time in the outdoors. 

2020 has changed a lot of travel regulations. Make sure your experience doesn’t have negative health consequences for others. Confirm you can travel to your destination without risk. 

Conclusion

Car camping is an ideal way to experience the outdoors. Planning is easy, and it’s an inexpensive way to do something new. Before you know it, you’ll have your favorite campsite.