Wild camping has become extremely popular nowadays around the world, and for a number of important reasons. During a pandemic, going off camping where there aren’t people around is a good way to stay safe and enjoy an outdoor adventure, but it’s also one of the best ways to escape the hustle and bustle of modern urban life. People are craving more alone time to escape the stress and lower their anxiety, but they are also going wild camping with family and friends.
Without a doubt, wild camping can be a fun and rewarding experience, whether you’re going alone, with your furry friend, or if other people are tagging along. However, in order to have an unforgettable wild camping trip, you need to prepare and plan your trip. Let’s take a look at the top tips you should use to plan your first wild camping trip.
Know where to go on a wild camping trip
First things first, you need to know where you can and cannot go on a wild camping escapade. While it might seem like a great idea to just pack up and head out for an outdoor adventure, it’s important to note that some countries strictly prohibit any camping activities outside of the designated campsites. This is not because anyone is trying to put a damper on your outdoor vacation, but because the authorities are trying their best to keep you safe and out of harm’s way. learn more here.
Understand that wild camping means that you’re headed into deep nature, the places where there’s nothing but wild terrain and who knows how many possible dangers lurking about. Be sure to check if wild camping is allowed in your country, and if not, consider going abroad to kick-start your adventure.
Monitor the weather and local conditions
There’s no telling what you might encounter on the road and while exploring your natural surroundings, and the last thing you want is for bad weather to ruin your trip. Some areas can simply be gloomy and uninspiring when the weather is bad, but other natural settings can become downright dangerous for wandering travelers. During a downpour, or in the case of strong winds, you may find that pitching a tent is next to impossible or that the terrain is to slippery to be traversed safely.
You want to avoid environmental hazards at all cost in order to have a stress-free experience and keep yourself and others in your group safe. Monitor the weather forecast closely and pick your destinations according to the weather patterns and predictions. Be sure to monitor the changes in weather patterns during your trip as well, and choose safer destinations should the weather change along the way.
Bring the essential survival gear
Wild camping truly means that you’re out alone in the wild, and that’s why you need to come prepared and bring your essential survival gear. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit so that you can tend to any wounds on a moment’s notice, and bring an antiseptic to sterilize the wound. Always have something sharp you can use as a tool in various situations, such as durable automatic knives that can have a multifunctional purpose, from cutting rope to getting you out of a tight spot.
You’ll also need to bring a portable water purifier should you run out of potable water on your trip, and you’ll need to keep your devices topped off at all times – so make sure to bring a solar charger. It’s wise to learn the lay of the land as well, and bring a compass so that you always know where you are even without a digital map or if the GPS dies on you.
Stay connected at all times
Speaking devices and GPS connectivity, it’s important to always stay connected to the outside world during your wild camping escapade. Because you’re camping in untamed nature, you’ll be cut off from the authorities and the nearest emergency services, but you still need to maintain a digital link so that you can call for help if need be.
Make sure to bring durable devices along with a signal amplifier to ensure you always have cell reception wherever you are. Always check that your GPS is working properly and that the location tracker on your phone is on. Don’t leave for your wild camping trip before notifying your family, friends, and the local authorities of your itinerary and expected date of return.
Don’t forget your hiking necessities
Lastly, keep in mind that your camping trip will take you on numerous hikes and trends across various terrains, so it’s important to travel-proof your camping escapade with the right hiking gear. Depending on the length of your trip and the weather conditions, you want to be able to change your clothes regularly, so make sure to bring plenty of layers. Don’t go on your trip without proper hiking boots, and consider buying hiking canes to help you traverse those rugged terrains and mountain ranges.
Wrapping up
Wild camping is a fun and thrilling experience, but it can also be quite dangerous if you don’t make all the necessary preparations. Use this handy guide to prep for your adventure and create unforgettable experiences out in the wild.