There’s something about the great outdoors that rejuvenates the spirit. The city life is fast and exciting, and some people prefer that. But sooner or later, they will yearn for the peace of the wilderness. That’s why millions of people leave the city to go hiking, camping, or fishing. You start to lose yourself if you lose your connection to nature. And you’ll never run out of things to do. That said, there are a few things you can improve on.
Campers are some of the best-prepared people on Earth. Life in the wilderness is difficult, and you need to learn how to support yourself without outside support. And even if you prefer an RV to a tent, you’re bound to know a few survival skills. But just because you’re in the middle of nowhere doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your comfort. The right upgrades can make all the difference.
The secret to a comfortable trip is to know what to bring. But before you head for the adventure store, here are a few tips that will help you make the right purchases. Camping gear can be quite confusing, especially to novices. And the wide selection of options isn’t helping either. But with some planning and preparation, your next camping trip is bound to be a success.
1. Check the paperwork
If there’s one thing you should know about camping gear, it’s that quality beats quantity every single time. Cheaping out will only lead to a world of problems. The next time you’re shopping for camping gear, make it a point to ask about the warranty and certification. The warranty should tell you everything you need to know about the product. Products with a lifetime warranty are your best bet since the manufacturer stands by their products’ longevity.
Certification is a bit more tricky, however. Some products have to meet certain ISO standards to ensure consistent quality across the board. A helmet bought in France shouldn’t differ that much from one bought in the United States. Check the product’s packaging or documentation for the ISO logo.
One easy way to ascertain whether a product meets minimum standards is to check its origin. If the product was made in places like the United States or the European Union, you could trust that it is durable.
2. Consider your usage patterns
Not all camping gear are made the same. Always consider your needs when buying new gear. It’s also important to think about the setting. For instance, a beach camping trip will have different requirements than a trip to the woods.
A beach tent is designed to promote cooling and good airflow. Meanwhile, a mountain tent has to withstand rains and other debris. If you need new clothes, a men’s denim sale might come in handy if you’re going to the mountains, but not so much for the beach.
3. How much cover do you need
Space isn’t usually an issue when you’re outdoors, but just because you can get a huge awning doesn’t mean you should. Campers are typically sensible folk who only bring what they need. You also don’t want to draw too much attention to yourself. For instance, if you need an awning, pick one that’s just the right size for your needs. If you’re camping with a partner, look for one that can adequately cover a picnic table.
That said, you’ll want all the protection you need, especially if you’re camping for an extended period of time. Extra-large awnings can be found in many camper vans and recreational vehicles. The average awning can only fit two people, so make sure to find one that’s as wide as your vehicle.
But if you’re the type who doesn’t stay in one place for long, then you’ll benefit from a small, retractable awning. They’re easy to set up and store and provides all the protection you need for a quick stop. And even if the weather isn’t an issue, you’ll still be able to enjoy the shade. An awning also comes in handy if you need extra privacy.
What you can get is limited by what you can do, however. If you’re a solo traveler, you might find it difficult to deploy an extra-large awning, especially if it needs poles for support. You might appreciate the versatility of a smaller unit instead.
The bottom line
These three tips will help you make the most of your camping trip. Camping is all about preparation, and if you know what you want to accomplish, you won’t have any trouble finding what you need. Try not to overthink what you need to buy. Just stick to the essentials, and you’re all set.
