Summer is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to get your tent out of storage and air out those sleeping bags. But what if your next camping trip could be more than just a chance to explore the great outdoors? Take your campsite to the next level with these four tips from pro campers and glampers. You’ll be amazed how a few changes can transform your camping experience.
Sleep Smarter
One of the simplest ways to upgrade your campsite is by making sure that you give yourself plenty of room. This, of course, won’t work well for campers who are hiking to their site, but as long as you have a way to haul your gear to camp, take advantage of that. Invest in a queen size cot and sleeping bag so that you can rest in comfort, even if the ground is lumpy and uneven. A cot will also keep you extra dry if it rains during your trip.
Make Some Room
If you have a large cot, you’ll also need a larger tent to house it, and one good option for those who want a less cramped camping experience is a multi-room tent. Many tents feature dividers or separate areas, and even if you’re not traveling with others, you can store your bags and food in one space and sleep in another. Another way to expand your space is by setting up a screen tent or shade canopy outside your main sleeping area. You can relax and eat in this area, while staying out of the sun.
Consider An RV
A tent is a camping must-have, but if you cover a lot of territory on your trips or want to be able to camp year-round, it may be time to consider an RV. Motorhomes and RVs come in a variety of sizes depending on your needs, and specialized RVs can also accommodate sports equipment like ATVs and mountain bikes. Some people even live in their RVs full time, but even if you camp a few weeks a year, you might enjoy the freedom and convenience they provide.
Meal Prep Smarter
No matter how well you prepare for your camping trip, the food is often one of the lowlights, especially if you’re going to be off the grid for a while – but it doesn’t have to be. By planning your meals in advance, you can set a menu that will let you eat like a king.
So what’s on the menu for your next camping trip? There are a few ways to approach meal planning. Brands like Good To-Go make restaurant-ready camping meals, though they’re a little pricy. For a more DIY approach to meal prep, pre-mix Ziploc omelets that you can boil for a quick, nutritious breakfast, wrap burritos that can be dropped in the fire pit to heat up, and pack the components for noodle or grain salads that you can quickly assemble and eat for a fresh, flavorful bite.
Camping should be an opportunity to relax and refresh in nature, but by bringing a little luxury on the trail, you’ll return even more renewed, having slept under the stars, breathed fresh air, and spent some time unplugged. So give your campsite an upgrade – you deserve it.
Image Credits: Campsite from Manutsawee Buapet/Shutterstock