Car Camping: What You Must Know Before You Do It

More and more people are learning that the best way to relax is through taking a nature vacation. Anyone can enjoy the beautiful views and the fun activities, but not everyone is fond of tent camping, that’s why they prefer to stay overnight in their vehicle.

Car camping is a good way for camping beginners to get a feel of how it is to sleep outdoors. If you’re planning to go on a nature road trip soon and do some car camping, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Follow these essential tips for car camping beginners!

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Car Camping: What You Must Know Before You Do It

Plan Ahead

Like any other trip, careful planning is key to a successful trip. Choose a good campground and be sure to make a reservation. Depending on your company, check the different activities available in the area to add fun to your trip, especially if you’re going with family.

It’s also ideal to check rules and restrictions regarding pets, making a campfire, drinking alcohol, etc.

Get your Car Ready

It’s called car camping, which means you’ll be using your vehicle for everything from traveling to sleeping. Before your trip, it’s important to make sure that your car is in tip-top shape. Do a general check-up, change the oils, check the tires, and gas it up! Bring jumper cables in case you need them!

Pack Freely

You’re not a backpacker who needs to consider space and weight when packing. With car camping, you have the luxury to bring gear or items that will make your trip more comfortable like full-sized pillows, a coffeemaker, or your favorite chair. It’s better to overpack the first few trips (but also considering the size of your car and how many people coming on the trip) to make sure you have everything you need.

Prepare for the Outdoors

When you’re spending time outdoors, you should be prepared for whatever nature brings. Sudden rain and lots of mosquitoes are common at campsites, so to avoid your trip being ruined, bring rain gear and some mosquito repellant in case these are problems you have to face during your trip.

Follow Camp Etiquette

No matter what type of camping you’re going to do, you should always observe both the written and unwritten rules

of camping. The most important is Leave No Trace, so be sure to pack out your trash and leave the campsite cleaner than when you arrived!

Follow these car camping tips for beginners for a more memorable trip!

Daniel J. Smith is a survival expert. Having lived the outdoor life since he was very young, he loves sharing his expertise about camping, hiking, traveling, RV living and many more. He has also started his own company called OutBright, which will soon be selling products that cater to campers, hikers, travellers and all outdoor-loving adventurers.