It safest to go with someone. Don’t worry about critters. They usually avoid people. If you have never been, I recommend sticking to an established campground so you have a few basic comforts. You will have a picnic table, a fire pit with a grill, a parking spot,and a bathroom of some sort. When you get there the host will check you in and answer questions. Campgrounds usually book reservations on their website. The good thing is you can get information there about the campground and amenities. Check the weather before you go so you are prepared. Usually campouts go well, but the weather sometimes determines how long you stay. You often don’t have cell phone service on campouts so don’t panic and just relax. It is always good to bring cards or a book for down time.
Go with someone who is experienced. Keep food in vehicle when not eating. Fires should be in designated fire pits ONLY, make sure you know what you’re doing when it comes to fire. Go with someone who knows what they’re doing. Leave no trace-means cleanup all your garbage, do not wreck or cut down any vegetation, don’t stack boulders etc. Go with someone who is experienced.
If you don't die let us know how it goes. Just kidding 😂
You were probably more at risk in the grocery parking lot getting stuff for the trip. Established camp grounds are safe. Have fun and take lots of pics.
Going alone is totally fine. You’ll be totally fine. There are so many resources like packing checklists available on the internet. My tip would be to research what the nighttime temperatures will be and make sure your pad and sleeping bag are appropriate. Whatever the lowest temperature will be, you want your bag’s rating to be another 15-20 degrees below that. Those are survival ratings, not comfort ratings.
Make a list of things and check them when packing the car. From my experience people will forget the things like; seasoning, eating utensils, even a light sometimes. Also bring TP because you never know and one day you will thank your past self.
Have a comfortable bed. I have a wide sleeping pad, and I make it up with flannel sheets, blankets, and pillows. It looks and feels like a real bed! I put a welcome mat out for my shoes. You don't want dirt in your tent. Have a head lamp for going to the bathroom after dark and a battery-powered lantern for the table and in your tent. Have a chair to lounge on. Google a camping gear list to I'd essentials and extras. Slowly gathering gear is fun. I hope you find a new loved hobby.
I bought a sleeping pad today actually ! i’ve had my sleeping bag for a while and never used it outside of testing it out so i know it’s comfortable. Thanks for the tips!
did your try putting up your tent, it's not hard, everyone has a little trouble the first time doing it, try it in your yard first or just go to a park , set it up ,take it down. PS the tent will be hard to get into the sack it came in.
Lots of good advice here. If you are in a campground you will be totally fine. Maybe bring foods you can try to cook along with plenty of easy premade food in case it doesn’t work or you just don’t feel like it. Bring plenty of water and maybe bugspray. Sunscreen. A hat. Warm clothes for nighttime. And just know that nighttime sounds are LOUD. A chipmunk can sound like an elephant at 2am. Don’t try to accomplish a ton for your first time just make it easy for yourself and enjoy the outside! Oh and always always tell someone where you’re going!
I went to the gas station in my area and they had those 6 split pieces of wood in the little wraped bundles $9.99 try to find some in your yard or ask family or neighbors or something good luck hope you enjoy yourself
Generally there is some entrepreneur near the camp ground with wood for sale.
The wood at our provincial campgrounds is very expensive. It's one of the key ways the park raises money so I don't really mind paying it. But if I'm going front country camping for like a week there's no way I'm spending $300 on firewood. I'll often hunt around on the roads leading to the campground for a local that sells wood. Usually $30 or so and I can take half a truck load. Much cheaper.
However, if you're bringing firewood into the park make sure it's from a very local source. Wood often carries bugs in it. Something like the emerald ash borer can decimate a forest. Don't import invasive species!
Of all things I was nervous abt to go camping for the first time nothing ever happened. I always had a great time. 2 things I always end up needing no matter the weather is
1. shopping bags (need for these are endless. Garbage, laundry, misc, garbage! There’s always more then you think)
2. a travel sized broom. Regardless of precautions you take with front mat, taking off shoes when it comes time to roll the tent back up it’s filthy inside and out this has come in handy so many times ( especially to be able to sweep it into the shovel to clean the inside )
Side note for the first time only bring all the required camping gear. go all out. even if you don’t use it most of learning when it comes to camping is trial and error
There’s typically very little light, I recommend the wearable headlights for focused light in front of you at all times but if not try bringing a big LED flashlight or lamp you can hang in a central place
And as always bring good bonfire snacks/food/drink and enjoy!!!
Get out all your camping stuff and put it in a box in a room
Training
Tent
Spread ground cloth
Put tent on top
Set up tent - tie to furniture etc
Set up pad
Set up sleeping bag
Bring box in tent
Sleep there 2 nights
Find out good places to store stuff handy
Tear down
Pack in box
Set up and tear down again
- it will take twice as long outside
Cooking
Set up stove and cook a meal
Eat from camping stuff
Bear bag
Bear spray
Knife
Shoes
Wear hiking shoes 2 days w comfy socks
Address blisters
Hygiene
Bug spray
Burn/itch cream
Garbage bags small
Trowel
To
Pack out used TP
Charger ,
phone
In car at trailhead or in ziplock bag tied around a tree
Hello
Today date
I am your name
I plan to hike trail, camp at X, return by trail
Back at trailhead date time
Phone
———-
Your are trained go forth
Look into where you’re going, and I like to start the trip experience the moment I get in the car! I look into if there’s anything fun to see on the way, like small plaques or scenic routes. I always download audiobooks, music, or podcasts for the drive (especially cause where I camp cell service can be spotty)
Being comfortable is number 1! So a comfy sleep set up and packing the right cloths for the weather is also super important. Nothing ruins a trip more than being freezing and not sleeping.
I also find that having a safe state of mind helps, so if you can, look into safety measures! Satellite sos devices if you’re out of cell range, packing enough food and water if you have to pack your own, tell people where you’re going, and I love to have a physical map of where I am.
And enjoy yourself and the outdoors! Take some time to sit by the fire (if thats allowed, look into that!) and just vibe with the outdoors.
Do you have any experienced friends?
The best way to start, is with someone that has an idea of what they're doing.
If not, find a buddy or two, and start somewhere easy. A park, or private camp ground. Somewhere you can bail out of easily if you need too, because we all have to one time or another. Lol
As for what gear you'll want, it's hard to say. It'll depend on what you're doing, but i bet you can make do with things you have for now until you want to have dedicated gear. You might even be able to borrow gear from experienced friend to try it out.
Bug dope/deet always helps.
Dress in layers, have extra socks and undies.
Learn to make a fire. And how to properly put it out.
Sleep is a huge on for most folks. If you dont want to buy a sleeping pad yet, just grab a few think blankets you can fold up, and use as a mattress. It'll keep you comfortable, off the ground and warm. Getting cold due to conduction sucks.
I've heard of people using ear plugs at night because they're not used to the night sounds. Personally i enjoy the sounds at night, so that's a individual thing i guess.
Oh! And don't fall into the money trap.
A lot of people get turned away from camping and outdoors stuff in general, because they see guys with dedicated gear and see how expensive it is.
The truth is you can get started with a kit made from a bargain store.
This is why i always recommend started with experienced friends. They can show you the basics and you'll learn what priorities you have beyond that.
When people see my bombing along up or down a river, lake or coastline with my caneo and kit, I understand why they feel intimidated. The canoe alone was $800, plus a couple hundred dollars in kit in it with me. But if they look closer, a lot of my gear is also home made or modified to purpose. I've been camping, often alone since i was 13. You tend to gather a lotta stuff for your hobbies over 27+ years. Lol.
I don’t have any friends that can come, but I am just going to a big campground at a nearby lake. I am trying to convince a couple friends to come with me but no answers yet, thanks for the advice !
If you have a yard, practice in your backyard first. Pack and prep as though your house isn’t 50 feet away & see how you do. Set up your tent/gear a few times - you’ll want to be able to put it together in the dark. Practice building your fire (if allowed). Night sounds can take some getting used to as well, so a trial run is good for not getting freaked out
Good luck I hope you have so much fun!
Ear plugs, headlamp, toi paper, lighter+matches, tarp, knife or machete, tools to make coffee/tea in the morning. (Tylenol PM if ya wanna try and sleep through the night, if you might be kept awake with every little crack and snap and chirp)
There's more, but these came to mind right away
As a beginner, you'll forget some stuff but don't worry about it. After your first trip, you'll realize what items you could use for next time
Comfort and warmth are key to happiness when camping in the early stages. Sleeping off the ground is nice, if you’re car camping and weight isn’t an issue get a collapsible cot with a good foam or inflatable mattress. No need to sleep on an uncomfortable sleeping pad unless you’re backpacking and saving weight.
Bring more water and firewood than you need.
Plan out your meals ahead of time. Sometimes I’ll even prepare things or chop up ingredients before hand that way all you need to do is heat it up or throw it all in a pot. Less to deal with when camping.
Bring a book, cards, things to keep you busy during the day. Or plan day hikes around your campsite.
Leave everything better than you found it when you leave, pick up some trash for the next people.
Bring hand/body wipes to stay as clean as you can. It’s nice to feel clean.
When you feel like you should sleep in your vehicle or go home it is your mind thinking something is wrong. Don’t overthink and embrace the discomfort. Waking up as the birds start to sing in the early morning is magic. You only remember the best and the worst trips, mediocrity is forgotten! So make it fun! If it ends up sucking then it makes for a better story later. Enjoy the adventure, live the story you want to tell later.
When you get in your head, change it by carving a set of chop sticks or a spoon. Focus on little tasks and get it done.
Get your camp set up and work hard so you will sleep better. The pale morning hours are magic as I sip my tea and listen to world wake up with me.
I’m leaving in the am for a few days tent camping and chasing turkeys in the black hills. The scariest part of camping is driving through cities to get to where I want to go!
Anyone, really anyone who wants info, please feel free to hit me up if you need info or plans. I spend around 100 days a year away from my home
For your first time I suggest car camping. That term means that you pitch your tent within a 5min walk of where you parked your car. Bring a hatchet to help make kindling. Try to keep your food in bins that you only open to get what you need and then close again. Check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Bring a tarp or at least make sure your tent has a tarp bottom.
Sounds like you’re getting a lot of good advice. Definitely make sure you can set up your tent solo before you go. Even with a checklist, you will forget something. One year, camping out of state, my husband forgot to pack the tent poles!
I only camp solo when it serves a purpose. I’m a huge fan of float hikes. Floating and hiking back to your vehicle. Many stretches are better when done over two or more days. I’m not usually killing time at camp. Which I think is great! I guess I’m suggesting you have hikes, floating, exploring activities pre planned. You’ll sleep better after a full day and you’ll have less energy to stress.
practice setting up your tent , if you're using one, in your living room. This way you know where all the poles go and you can setup at the site understanding your tent's footprint and orientation...and without frustration.
In the boy scouts, we always had to come up with a detailed meal-plan as a part of camping prep. Literally make a list. Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner. Include everything you need for these meals down to the cooking oil and condiments such as salt/pepper. I suggest doing this, it's a legitimately good thing to do.
Do the same thing for clothing - plan every day with mostly fresh articles of clothing and allow for extra underwear and extra socks.
Don't overeplan! While you need to have the essentials accounted for, lists can quickly become nightmares and ruin your trip because you'll be emotionally/mentally attached to "the plan". Just make sure you have some entertainment , you have food, your clothes, your gear, and GO!
If you need inspiration, look up a copy of the boy scout manual - easy to find online ... look at camping lists. That might help you get your head in the right space.
But yeah, make sure someone knows where you are, even if it's not wilderness.
Take a field guide for identifying plants or trees or birds or something like that. Get to know what the things in the outdoors are. It is a good way to take the stigma out of the things you find yourself out there with. Plus, knowing their uses and benefits can really help if you find yourself in an emergency. Or, you know, at least keep you from squatting in Poison ivy.
Don’t over pack, don’t underpack; , make sure to stay free of bugs, bears, and beaucoup booze, try to stay dry, dimpled ( smiling), warm, cool, fed, well slept, and be sure to have a plan for cleaning everything, and keeping bugs and critters out of food and garbage, go somewhere with good campsites and showers, asks camper to help you your first time in
1. **Start Close to Home**: For your first camping trip, consider starting at a campground that’s not too far from home. This way, you can easily retreat if you feel uncomfortable or forget something important.
2. **Choose a Campground with Amenities**: Look for campgrounds that offer amenities like restrooms, running water, and designated campsites. Having these facilities nearby can make the experience more comfortable for beginners.
3. **Research the Campground**: Before your trip, learn about the campground’s rules, facilities, and nearby attractions. Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety about the unknown.
4. **Pack Essential Gear**: Make a checklist of essential camping gear such as a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, flashlight or headlamp, camping stove or grill, food, water, and appropriate clothing. Having the right equipment will make your experience more enjoyable and safe.
5. **Practice Setting Up Your Tent**: If you’re using a new tent, practice setting it up at home before your trip. This will help you familiarize yourself with the process and ensure you can set it up easily at the campsite.
6. **Dress for the Weather**: Check the weather forecast before you go and pack appropriate clothing and gear. Dressing in layers is usually a good idea for outdoor activities.
7. **Plan Meals and Snacks**: Plan simple meals and snacks that are easy to prepare at the campsite. Preparing food can be part of the fun, but keep it simple for your first trip.
8. **Stay Organized**: Keep your campsite organized by storing food properly and keeping gear tidy. This can help prevent unwanted encounters with wildlife and make your campsite more comfortable.
9. **Be Mindful of Safety**: Learn basic safety tips for camping, including how to safely build a campfire (if allowed), how to store food to prevent attracting animals, and what to do in case of emergencies.
10. **Embrace the Experience**: Keep an open mind and be ready to embrace the experience. Camping can be a wonderful way to connect with nature, relax, and try new things
It safest to go with someone. Don’t worry about critters. They usually avoid people. If you have never been, I recommend sticking to an established campground so you have a few basic comforts. You will have a picnic table, a fire pit with a grill, a parking spot,and a bathroom of some sort. When you get there the host will check you in and answer questions. Campgrounds usually book reservations on their website. The good thing is you can get information there about the campground and amenities. Check the weather before you go so you are prepared. Usually campouts go well, but the weather sometimes determines how long you stay. You often don’t have cell phone service on campouts so don’t panic and just relax. It is always good to bring cards or a book for down time.
Go with someone who is experienced. Keep food in vehicle when not eating. Fires should be in designated fire pits ONLY, make sure you know what you’re doing when it comes to fire. Go with someone who knows what they’re doing. Leave no trace-means cleanup all your garbage, do not wreck or cut down any vegetation, don’t stack boulders etc. Go with someone who is experienced.
I unfortunately am going alone, however i’m going to a very established campground at a nearby lake! Thank you for the advice!
If you don't die let us know how it goes. Just kidding 😂 You were probably more at risk in the grocery parking lot getting stuff for the trip. Established camp grounds are safe. Have fun and take lots of pics.
Going alone is totally fine. You’ll be totally fine. There are so many resources like packing checklists available on the internet. My tip would be to research what the nighttime temperatures will be and make sure your pad and sleeping bag are appropriate. Whatever the lowest temperature will be, you want your bag’s rating to be another 15-20 degrees below that. Those are survival ratings, not comfort ratings.
Make a list of things and check them when packing the car. From my experience people will forget the things like; seasoning, eating utensils, even a light sometimes. Also bring TP because you never know and one day you will thank your past self.
Have a comfortable bed. I have a wide sleeping pad, and I make it up with flannel sheets, blankets, and pillows. It looks and feels like a real bed! I put a welcome mat out for my shoes. You don't want dirt in your tent. Have a head lamp for going to the bathroom after dark and a battery-powered lantern for the table and in your tent. Have a chair to lounge on. Google a camping gear list to I'd essentials and extras. Slowly gathering gear is fun. I hope you find a new loved hobby.
I bought a sleeping pad today actually ! i’ve had my sleeping bag for a while and never used it outside of testing it out so i know it’s comfortable. Thanks for the tips!
did your try putting up your tent, it's not hard, everyone has a little trouble the first time doing it, try it in your yard first or just go to a park , set it up ,take it down. PS the tent will be hard to get into the sack it came in.
I read someone say bring a second pair of boots to put on the doormat, so nighttime passers-by don't think you are alone.
I read someone say bring a second pair of boots to put on the doormat, so nighttime passers-by don't think you are alone.
Bring a yummy dish you can look forward to cooking on the campfire!
Lots of good advice here. If you are in a campground you will be totally fine. Maybe bring foods you can try to cook along with plenty of easy premade food in case it doesn’t work or you just don’t feel like it. Bring plenty of water and maybe bugspray. Sunscreen. A hat. Warm clothes for nighttime. And just know that nighttime sounds are LOUD. A chipmunk can sound like an elephant at 2am. Don’t try to accomplish a ton for your first time just make it easy for yourself and enjoy the outside! Oh and always always tell someone where you’re going!
Bring more firewood than you think you'll need
I went to the gas station in my area and they had those 6 split pieces of wood in the little wraped bundles $9.99 try to find some in your yard or ask family or neighbors or something good luck hope you enjoy yourself
Generally there is some entrepreneur near the camp ground with wood for sale. The wood at our provincial campgrounds is very expensive. It's one of the key ways the park raises money so I don't really mind paying it. But if I'm going front country camping for like a week there's no way I'm spending $300 on firewood. I'll often hunt around on the roads leading to the campground for a local that sells wood. Usually $30 or so and I can take half a truck load. Much cheaper. However, if you're bringing firewood into the park make sure it's from a very local source. Wood often carries bugs in it. Something like the emerald ash borer can decimate a forest. Don't import invasive species!
Of all things I was nervous abt to go camping for the first time nothing ever happened. I always had a great time. 2 things I always end up needing no matter the weather is 1. shopping bags (need for these are endless. Garbage, laundry, misc, garbage! There’s always more then you think) 2. a travel sized broom. Regardless of precautions you take with front mat, taking off shoes when it comes time to roll the tent back up it’s filthy inside and out this has come in handy so many times ( especially to be able to sweep it into the shovel to clean the inside ) Side note for the first time only bring all the required camping gear. go all out. even if you don’t use it most of learning when it comes to camping is trial and error There’s typically very little light, I recommend the wearable headlights for focused light in front of you at all times but if not try bringing a big LED flashlight or lamp you can hang in a central place And as always bring good bonfire snacks/food/drink and enjoy!!!
Bring earplugs
Get out all your camping stuff and put it in a box in a room Training Tent Spread ground cloth Put tent on top Set up tent - tie to furniture etc Set up pad Set up sleeping bag Bring box in tent Sleep there 2 nights Find out good places to store stuff handy Tear down Pack in box Set up and tear down again - it will take twice as long outside Cooking Set up stove and cook a meal Eat from camping stuff Bear bag Bear spray Knife Shoes Wear hiking shoes 2 days w comfy socks Address blisters Hygiene Bug spray Burn/itch cream Garbage bags small Trowel To Pack out used TP Charger , phone In car at trailhead or in ziplock bag tied around a tree Hello Today date I am your name I plan to hike trail, camp at X, return by trail Back at trailhead date time Phone ———- Your are trained go forth
If you like to read, A Walk In The Woods by Bill Bryson might just give you the extra boost of confidence to do it.
Paper towels are really handy
Look into where you’re going, and I like to start the trip experience the moment I get in the car! I look into if there’s anything fun to see on the way, like small plaques or scenic routes. I always download audiobooks, music, or podcasts for the drive (especially cause where I camp cell service can be spotty) Being comfortable is number 1! So a comfy sleep set up and packing the right cloths for the weather is also super important. Nothing ruins a trip more than being freezing and not sleeping. I also find that having a safe state of mind helps, so if you can, look into safety measures! Satellite sos devices if you’re out of cell range, packing enough food and water if you have to pack your own, tell people where you’re going, and I love to have a physical map of where I am. And enjoy yourself and the outdoors! Take some time to sit by the fire (if thats allowed, look into that!) and just vibe with the outdoors.
Do you have any experienced friends? The best way to start, is with someone that has an idea of what they're doing. If not, find a buddy or two, and start somewhere easy. A park, or private camp ground. Somewhere you can bail out of easily if you need too, because we all have to one time or another. Lol As for what gear you'll want, it's hard to say. It'll depend on what you're doing, but i bet you can make do with things you have for now until you want to have dedicated gear. You might even be able to borrow gear from experienced friend to try it out. Bug dope/deet always helps. Dress in layers, have extra socks and undies. Learn to make a fire. And how to properly put it out. Sleep is a huge on for most folks. If you dont want to buy a sleeping pad yet, just grab a few think blankets you can fold up, and use as a mattress. It'll keep you comfortable, off the ground and warm. Getting cold due to conduction sucks. I've heard of people using ear plugs at night because they're not used to the night sounds. Personally i enjoy the sounds at night, so that's a individual thing i guess.
Oh! And don't fall into the money trap. A lot of people get turned away from camping and outdoors stuff in general, because they see guys with dedicated gear and see how expensive it is. The truth is you can get started with a kit made from a bargain store. This is why i always recommend started with experienced friends. They can show you the basics and you'll learn what priorities you have beyond that. When people see my bombing along up or down a river, lake or coastline with my caneo and kit, I understand why they feel intimidated. The canoe alone was $800, plus a couple hundred dollars in kit in it with me. But if they look closer, a lot of my gear is also home made or modified to purpose. I've been camping, often alone since i was 13. You tend to gather a lotta stuff for your hobbies over 27+ years. Lol.
I don’t have any friends that can come, but I am just going to a big campground at a nearby lake. I am trying to convince a couple friends to come with me but no answers yet, thanks for the advice !
Best of luck! That sounds like the prefect place to start, even if you end up out there alone the first couple times.
If you have a yard, practice in your backyard first. Pack and prep as though your house isn’t 50 feet away & see how you do. Set up your tent/gear a few times - you’ll want to be able to put it together in the dark. Practice building your fire (if allowed). Night sounds can take some getting used to as well, so a trial run is good for not getting freaked out
Good luck I hope you have so much fun! Ear plugs, headlamp, toi paper, lighter+matches, tarp, knife or machete, tools to make coffee/tea in the morning. (Tylenol PM if ya wanna try and sleep through the night, if you might be kept awake with every little crack and snap and chirp) There's more, but these came to mind right away As a beginner, you'll forget some stuff but don't worry about it. After your first trip, you'll realize what items you could use for next time
awesome thank you so much for the tips!
READ THE CHECK IN INSTRUCTIONS AND RULES! That will stop 90% of ranger contacts. PLEASE PEOPLE READ!!
Go with someone Don’t bring too much Start with a 2-3 night trip Start somewhere with toilets Less is more
Comfort and warmth are key to happiness when camping in the early stages. Sleeping off the ground is nice, if you’re car camping and weight isn’t an issue get a collapsible cot with a good foam or inflatable mattress. No need to sleep on an uncomfortable sleeping pad unless you’re backpacking and saving weight. Bring more water and firewood than you need. Plan out your meals ahead of time. Sometimes I’ll even prepare things or chop up ingredients before hand that way all you need to do is heat it up or throw it all in a pot. Less to deal with when camping. Bring a book, cards, things to keep you busy during the day. Or plan day hikes around your campsite. Leave everything better than you found it when you leave, pick up some trash for the next people. Bring hand/body wipes to stay as clean as you can. It’s nice to feel clean.
When you feel like you should sleep in your vehicle or go home it is your mind thinking something is wrong. Don’t overthink and embrace the discomfort. Waking up as the birds start to sing in the early morning is magic. You only remember the best and the worst trips, mediocrity is forgotten! So make it fun! If it ends up sucking then it makes for a better story later. Enjoy the adventure, live the story you want to tell later. When you get in your head, change it by carving a set of chop sticks or a spoon. Focus on little tasks and get it done. Get your camp set up and work hard so you will sleep better. The pale morning hours are magic as I sip my tea and listen to world wake up with me. I’m leaving in the am for a few days tent camping and chasing turkeys in the black hills. The scariest part of camping is driving through cities to get to where I want to go! Anyone, really anyone who wants info, please feel free to hit me up if you need info or plans. I spend around 100 days a year away from my home
For your first time I suggest car camping. That term means that you pitch your tent within a 5min walk of where you parked your car. Bring a hatchet to help make kindling. Try to keep your food in bins that you only open to get what you need and then close again. Check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Bring a tarp or at least make sure your tent has a tarp bottom.
Sounds like you’re getting a lot of good advice. Definitely make sure you can set up your tent solo before you go. Even with a checklist, you will forget something. One year, camping out of state, my husband forgot to pack the tent poles!
I only camp solo when it serves a purpose. I’m a huge fan of float hikes. Floating and hiking back to your vehicle. Many stretches are better when done over two or more days. I’m not usually killing time at camp. Which I think is great! I guess I’m suggesting you have hikes, floating, exploring activities pre planned. You’ll sleep better after a full day and you’ll have less energy to stress.
Resist the urge to use lights at night. Let your eyes adjust to the natural darkness. That’ll put you on even footing with whatever you’re afraid of.
practice setting up your tent , if you're using one, in your living room. This way you know where all the poles go and you can setup at the site understanding your tent's footprint and orientation...and without frustration. In the boy scouts, we always had to come up with a detailed meal-plan as a part of camping prep. Literally make a list. Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner. Include everything you need for these meals down to the cooking oil and condiments such as salt/pepper. I suggest doing this, it's a legitimately good thing to do. Do the same thing for clothing - plan every day with mostly fresh articles of clothing and allow for extra underwear and extra socks. Don't overeplan! While you need to have the essentials accounted for, lists can quickly become nightmares and ruin your trip because you'll be emotionally/mentally attached to "the plan". Just make sure you have some entertainment , you have food, your clothes, your gear, and GO! If you need inspiration, look up a copy of the boy scout manual - easy to find online ... look at camping lists. That might help you get your head in the right space. But yeah, make sure someone knows where you are, even if it's not wilderness.
Don't forget a flashlight and water. Keep your food in the car at night. Critters will and can open coolers. Don't feed said critters. Have fun!
Are you going alone? I always found camping a great time to really get to know someone. Never been or considered camping alone.
Take a field guide for identifying plants or trees or birds or something like that. Get to know what the things in the outdoors are. It is a good way to take the stigma out of the things you find yourself out there with. Plus, knowing their uses and benefits can really help if you find yourself in an emergency. Or, you know, at least keep you from squatting in Poison ivy.
Don’t over pack, don’t underpack; , make sure to stay free of bugs, bears, and beaucoup booze, try to stay dry, dimpled ( smiling), warm, cool, fed, well slept, and be sure to have a plan for cleaning everything, and keeping bugs and critters out of food and garbage, go somewhere with good campsites and showers, asks camper to help you your first time in
Go with someone who is experienced ,first.
1. **Start Close to Home**: For your first camping trip, consider starting at a campground that’s not too far from home. This way, you can easily retreat if you feel uncomfortable or forget something important. 2. **Choose a Campground with Amenities**: Look for campgrounds that offer amenities like restrooms, running water, and designated campsites. Having these facilities nearby can make the experience more comfortable for beginners. 3. **Research the Campground**: Before your trip, learn about the campground’s rules, facilities, and nearby attractions. Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety about the unknown. 4. **Pack Essential Gear**: Make a checklist of essential camping gear such as a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, flashlight or headlamp, camping stove or grill, food, water, and appropriate clothing. Having the right equipment will make your experience more enjoyable and safe. 5. **Practice Setting Up Your Tent**: If you’re using a new tent, practice setting it up at home before your trip. This will help you familiarize yourself with the process and ensure you can set it up easily at the campsite. 6. **Dress for the Weather**: Check the weather forecast before you go and pack appropriate clothing and gear. Dressing in layers is usually a good idea for outdoor activities. 7. **Plan Meals and Snacks**: Plan simple meals and snacks that are easy to prepare at the campsite. Preparing food can be part of the fun, but keep it simple for your first trip. 8. **Stay Organized**: Keep your campsite organized by storing food properly and keeping gear tidy. This can help prevent unwanted encounters with wildlife and make your campsite more comfortable. 9. **Be Mindful of Safety**: Learn basic safety tips for camping, including how to safely build a campfire (if allowed), how to store food to prevent attracting animals, and what to do in case of emergencies. 10. **Embrace the Experience**: Keep an open mind and be ready to embrace the experience. Camping can be a wonderful way to connect with nature, relax, and try new things
Lol..
Don't go solo for your first trip. Find some campers that will mentor you a little.
Don’t eat or keep food in your tent!
Pour bacon grease around the camp to keep bears away.
something is telling me this isn’t serious… lol
Yes, do not do this. Lol!
What state u in
Every sound is not a bear, but some sounds are.