Plenty of people love camping, and many of us go about it differently. To some, camping means pitching a tent in the woods and relying on your instincts for a few days. But others prefer the comforts of an RV or camper while enjoying the great outdoors. Car camping—camping out of your car—is another great option, especially when you can’t afford the luxuries of an RV. Keep reading this article to find out how to start car camping like a pro!
Pack The Essentials
The first thing you’ll need to do is pack up your gear. This includes:
- Water and food
- Air mattresses or sleeping bags
- A portable stove
- Blanket and pillows
Think about how long you’ll be away and the activities you’ve got planned as you load up on water, non-perishables, and snacks. For example, if you plan to go biking, you may need to bring more water than someone who’d prefer to meditate and become one with nature. Deciding on activities ahead of time also helps you know what additional gear you’ll need to save room for in the car.
Pro Tip
As you pack, think about your sleep setup. Do you plan to sleep in the car, or will you sleep outside? The option you decide will impact whether you need an air mattress or sleeping bags for a good night of rest.
Outfit Your Vehicle
Many of us plan to do some outdoor sports when we go camping. But when you camp out of your car, your space is limited. Upgrade your vehicle with the right aftermarket accessories rather than sleeping crammed between your sporting gear, clothing, and other essentials.
Many install trunk bike racks to load their bicycles easily and sometimes other sporting equipment. Roof cargo baskets are another great way to keep items out of your car, so you can have more space to move around, especially if you plan to sleep in the car.
Find the Right Campsite
Take time to locate the ideal campground in your area. As you do this, keep in mind that you may need to find one with additional amenities or pay close attention to the listed details. If this is a family trip and you have young kids, you may want to choose a campground with a family-friendly setup. Likewise, if your furry companion will join you, you’ll have to find a campsite that allows pets.
Clean Up After Yourself
Our final bit of advice on how to start car camping like a pro is to respect your surroundings. Make sure you clean up after yourself and leave the site looking as beautiful as when you arrived. When you camp, you’re a visitor, so respecting your surroundings is vital. Before packing up to return home, give the area a once-over to check for trash to ensure you leave no trace.