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]]>Stress Reduction
If only for a moment, camping offers us the opportunity to spend time with loved ones, disconnect from the digital world, replacing cell phones and Wi-Fi for fun and fresh air. The absence of everyday pressures combined with the tranquility of nature can help to clear the mind and calm the nervous system. Camping has even been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Physical Fitness
From setting up camp to hiking local trails, camping is inherently physical, especially if you plan to include swimming or other outdoor sports in your itinerary. Though they may not feel like a workout in the traditional sense, these activities provide the same benefits to cardiovascular health and muscle strength as a run on the treadmill or session at the gym—no membership required.
Enhanced Sleep Quality
Light pollution in urban environments and constant exposure to screens can disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythm, making it difficult to fall asleep and decreasing sleep quality throughout the night. While not a permanent solution, a few nights away from artificial light can help to regulate the body’s internal clock so quality sleep comes naturally. Once you’ve returned home, it’s just a matter of maintaining this new rhythm.
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]]>Choosing Your Campsite
Before you even head outdoors, do some research on your potential campsites to check for any abnormal weather alerts or wildlife activity happening in the area. Read up on the terrain conditions, opting for established campsites with designated fire pits when possible. Within your chosen campsite, set up your things away from low-lying areas that may be prone to flash flooding, keeping safe distance from any cliffs or steep slopes.
(@mizunogorilla)Fire Safety
Campfires are a central part of camping, but they’re also the most dangerous if not managed properly. Research any regulations or restrictions at your campsite in advance, and once you’ve arrived, thoroughly clear the area around the fire pit of any flammable debris. Have a few gallons of water nearby just in case, and never leave a fire unattended. Make sure the fire and any embers are extinguished before you to go sleep or leave the campsite.
Wildlife Awareness
Encountering animals up close can be exciting, but it’s important to remember that even the cutest critters are still wild animals. To avoid attracting any unwanted visitors, keep food stored securely in bear-resistant containers or hung from a tree. Learn about the local wildlife and their habits, and resist the temptation to get too close if you come across them. For extra protection, consider carrying bear spray or a homemade vinegar-based repellent.
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]]>Chose the Right Tent
All tents are not made the same. You should look for a bright color tent that will reflect the sunlight. Also, the material is important, with mesh-heavy tents being best for the summer. They will make the tent “breathable” while preventing the insects from coming in.
Find a Shade for Your Tent
The first step to a cooler camping experience is to find shade for your tent, preferably under a big tree. This will prevent it from heating up during the day and protect it in case of elements.
Disassemble the Tent During the Day
If you don’t need to use your tent during the day, disassemble it. This way, it won’t soak up the heat during the day and turn into a sauna.
Invest in a Portable Fan
Battery-operated portable fans can be a lifesaver during summer camping. They are easy to set up and will provide you with a much-needed cooling effect when there is no breeze in sight.
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]]>Do Your Research
Before hitting the road, do a little bit of research and find a campground that fits into your budget. Also make sure to familiarize yourself with their rules, reservation, and check-in policies, so you could avoid paying unnecessary extra fees.
Inefficient Packing
It’s crucial to be extremely efficient when you’re packing for your camping trip because being forgetful could cost you a fortune. Bring your own camping gear and make a checklist of essential items that you’ll need so you wouldn’t have to deal with any additional expenses while you’re on the road.
Eating Out
One of the beauties of camping is that it will teach you to be more self-reliant and independent – and that includes preparing your own meals. Instead of spending a fortune on eating out, make sure to pack all the cooking essentials and use them to cook simple, yet satisfying meals on the campground.
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]]>This is why bringing a good sleeping mat is so important. Sleeping mats just provide a layer of soft protection against the uneven ground, but you want to make sure it’s lightweight so you can carry it with the rest of your stuff. Here are some sleeping mats we recommend for your next camping trip!
Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Air Sleeping Pad
If camping is your thing, it’s a good idea to invest in a sleeping mat that is comfortable, lightweight and will last you many trips. It’s also easily inflatable, making it a great option.
Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite Sol Sleeping Pad
This mat is a great option for those traveling on a budget and who don’t want to deal with the process of inflating and deflating a mattress each night. This mat advertises its durability and compact design, despite the lower price tag.
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]]>The campsite is located in the middle of the Atlas Mountains about 45 minutes outside of Marrakech. Guests can take in almost other-worldly views of the mountains and the desert as they enjoy all that the property has to offer.
Aside from 20 tents, each of which includes a king-sized bed, private bathroom, and complimentary Wi-Fi, amenities include two swimming pools, an outdoor movie theater, and even a horse and camel stable. Throughout the day, activities such as yoga classes, camel trek excursions, and even desert survival workshops are held for guests to enjoy.
Caravan Agafay officially opens on October 1, but room reservations are filling up fast! Book now to start planning your trip to this little desert paradise.
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]]>Best in the Midwest
Allison Campground in Illinois is one of our favorite places for family camping. With three pools, a playground, and a nearby water park, there’s no shortage of opportunities for kids to have fun while their parents are free to relax by the lake.
Best in the West
Those in search of a family-friendly camping experience should head to Toketee Lake in Oregon where they’ll find waterfalls, swimming holes, and absolutely stunning views. Space at the campsite is first-come, first-serve, so be sure to arrive early to get a good spot.
Best in the East
Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds in the Catskill Mountains in New York is the ideal spot for those in search of some family-friendly camping. Campers can rent cabins or bring their own tents while enjoying amenities such as playgrounds and swimming pools.
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]]>Pros of Glamping
First, glamping is much easier and more accessible than glamping. You don’t have to do all of the hiking and setting up tents that you do with regular camping, which can be preferable for people with illnesses, disabilities, small children, or just those who don’t feel like working on vacation.
Glamping is also much more convenient, as you don’t have to give up the amenities you’re used to like proper toilets, electricity, and even wifi.
Cons of Glamping
One clear con of glamping is that it will cost much more money than traditional camping, which can be done for very cheap. And if you’re in it for the camping experience, glamping just might not live up to your expectations.
But if you know that what you’re going to get is something closer to an outdoor spa than a “roughing it” outdoorsy challenge, glamping really might be for you.
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]]>White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
This campsite is located just next to the Maine border, and it’s a great option if you’re looking for a quiet place to be one with nature. You’ll find plenty of wildlife and beautifully colored trees when camping here in early fall—just note that most of the leaves are gone by late October.
Brighton State Park, Vermont
Cabin rental options make Brighton State Park in Vermont a top choice if you’re looking to camp in a little more comfort. Stay inside and relax or venture out for a hike on one of the park’s trails until their camping season ends in mid-October.
Burlingame State Park, Rhode Island
Burlingame is one of the larger campgrounds in New England, so you’re sure to have plenty of space to enjoy nature. It surrounds a lake, so take a swim or rent a kayak as you take it all in.
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]]>Cooling Down
During September, especially the middle and end of the month, summer is finally coming to an end. At the height of summer, especially in more humid climates, it’s hot even at night. There are also a lot of bugs, especially mosquitos and gnats that come out in large numbers in summer. So as things cool down in September, you’ll still get the lasting warmth of August without feeling sticky or getting quite as bitten up.
Early in the School Year
If you work in a field that functions according to the academic calendar or has some kind of summer break, then you’ll either be just starting work or about to start in September. That means you have a little more free time than when the year is in full swing. Camping is usually a weekend or one-night activity, so it’s a good way to get away from work during the year. In September you might be feeling a little sick of work after getting used to vacation, so camping is a perfect way to wean yourself off of all the free time!
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