I have heard it many times “how to do you going camping”. The question is usually from someone with little to no camping experience and their inquisitive questioning is sincere. They honestly want to know how I camp but also how I survive camping. To them camping is a feat that requires magically abilities. They have an overwhelming fear of mother nature and are perplexed beyond belief.
Like anything worth doing camping first takes preparation. That means planning of where to go, preparing of equipment, figuring out a menu, packing the right clothing and prepping your mind for the task at hand.
The first step is to conquer your fear. Most humans feel vulnerable in the natural world. We are tuned to live indoors, work indoors, play indoors, and live most of our lives indoors. But the natural wonder is comfortable and safe if the proper preparation is taken. You first need to realize that there are very few things that can harm you in nature. It’s Hollywood hype you will be eaten by a bear or bitten by a rattle snake. There are no boogie men hiding in the bushes. If you properly prepare you can begin to relax and enjoy the natural experience. The preparation will build confidence. Learn basic safety skills of how to react to certain types of animals. Take a basic first aid course to give you even more confidence.
The second step is practice. Practicing always makes perfect and it’s a confidence builder. Set up your tent in the backyard. Practice setting it up and tearing it down. Sleep overnight in it to make sure your sleep system is warm enough and comfortable. Cook your dinner over a backyard fire pit to get use to what works and what does not. Watch videos of methods for campfire lighting. Test your lantern and flashlight in the safety of your home. The point is everything you do camping can be tested and practiced at home where you are comfortable and safe.
Third step is research. Research the area you plan on camping. Learn about the animals and fauna in the area. View maps so you are familiar with the area. If possible, drive to the campsite and get a visual in your mind. If this is not possible do a dry run camping overnight at a campground close to home before you tackle a trip that will take you far from home. There is so much info on the Internet today that there is no excuse going on trip without knowledge.
Fourth step is having the right equipment for the task. Improper gear and clothing can make a trip harder than it needs to be. For some folks this is the most intimidating part of camping is knowing what to bring. If possible, find a trusted and experienced friend or co-worker that can provide recommendations. If not look for a local store or hiking club that offers basic classes. Also begin reading books and viewing videos to get ideas on what to bring. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to camp but there will be an initial investment.
Fifth step is to pack your gear well in advance of the trip. Prepare a list, pack using the list. Double check everything so you don’t forget crucial gear. Now sit back and relax. You don’t need the stress of packing the day of the trip.
Follow these steps for camp set up.
1. Set up your tent. Survey the area, remove debris from the ground where your tent will sit, look up for dead hanging branches. Move if you see anything sketchy.
2. Inflate sleeping pads, set up you’re bedding. Get your gear organized and stowed away.
3. Gather firewood if you are going to use a campfire. Remember you want dry wood that is primarily off the ground. Do not chop or cut living trees. Gather all size of wood from pencil lead size to forearm size. Double what you think will need. More is better.
4. Sit back and relax and enjoy the area. Visualize what you want to do next and start planning it in your mind. Take your time and think things through. If dinner is next on the agenda, start prepping your meal or getting your cook gear together. Always be one step ahead in your mind.
Following these simple steps are a start to getting use to camping. Remember to take your time and don’t rush out to and ill-planned trip. Now get out there and enjoy what mother nature has to offer.
You can view my video here on my YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/AIrbEPoskD0
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