Camping season is always an exciting time to get out into the great outdoors. Whether you're an experienced camper or a first-timer, there’s always room to improve your camping experience. Check out these camping hacks and tips that can help make your trip more comfortable, organized, and fun!
Dollar Store Shoe Organizer
A simple and inexpensive shoe organizer can double as a great camping organizer. Hang it from a tree next to your tent or canopy, and use the pockets to store your camping necessities. Fill it with cooking utensils, sanitary items, medicines, or toys for easy access. Note: Do not use this for food unless you pack it in an airtight container to protect it from critters overnight.
Foam Floor Tiles
Line your tent floor with children's interlocking foam tiles to help keep it dry, clean, and free of sharp rocks. This simple addition can make a huge difference to your comfort during the night.
Reflect The Heat Away from Your Tent
Using inexpensive space blankets can help reflect the sun's rays away from your tent and keep it cooler. You can also hang them above your tent or other areas of your campsite to create a cooler, more comfortable environment.
Make a DIY Air Conditioner
Don’t have access to power for an AC unit? Try this DIY air conditioner using a battery-operated fan and ice. It’s a great way to stay cool on hot summer days when camping.
Bring a Camping Toilet
While it's fun to "rough it" in the woods, sometimes having a private space for personal matters is essential, especially if you have females in your group. A simple camping toilet placed in a secluded area downwind from the camp can greatly improve comfort. Alternatively, you can DIY by attaching a toilet seat to a bucket with a lining of kitty litter or a trash bag.
Protect Your Toilet Paper
Wind and rain can ruin your toilet paper, so protect it with a simple round coffee container. Cut a slit in the side and hang it next to your toilet. This will keep your paper dry and easily accessible.
Freeze Your Meals
To save time and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, cook and freeze your meats before your trip. When it’s time to cook, simply add the frozen meat to your camp stove or Dutch oven to thaw and heat. Vacuum-seal your meals ahead of time to minimize bacteria growth and ensure food safety. Always keep meat at a safe temperature, using dry ice or regularly replacing ice in coolers.
Use Freeze-Dried Meats
If you're looking for an easier way to keep your meat safe, consider freeze-dried meats. Simply rehydrate them with warm water, add your favorite seasoning, and you have a delicious meal. You can even freeze-dry your own meals before your trip for even greater convenience.
Prepare All Food Ahead of Time
To minimize mess and make cooking easier, prepare foods like batters and eggs ahead of time. For example, store broken eggs in water bottles and pancake batter in sealed bags. Pre-cook hot dogs in the microwave and simply heat them up when it’s time for dinner. Planning ahead will simplify your campfire cooking!
Create a Wash Station
An old liquid laundry detergent container makes a great wash station for camping. Attach paper towels to the container and place it on the end of your table next to soap. You can also use a bucket underneath to collect the dirty water. This setup works for handwashing and cleaning dishes, and if you’re adventurous, you can use it for a cold shower by hanging it from a tree!
Make a Water-Tight Matches Container
To keep your matches safe and dry, store them in a water-tight container like a mason jar or pill bottle. Simply glue a piece of sandpaper to the lid so you can strike the matches when needed.
Check Out Nearby Town Amenities
While camping is about escaping, it's also nice to break up the routine with a trip into town for a meal or to explore other amenities. Whether it's a local restaurant or a snow cone shack, these small indulgences can make your camping trip more enjoyable. You could even surprise your family with a pizza while picking up ice!
Keep Communication Options Open
Even if you're trying to disconnect, it's always a good idea to have communication options available. Keep your cell phones charged or bring a solar-powered charger. A handheld radio, walkie-talkies, or a solar-powered radio can be life-saving in an emergency situation or if there’s a sudden change in weather.
Learn the Art of Hammocking
Camping is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. Hammocks offer a cozy spot to relax, read, or take a nap. When your tent gets too warm, tie a hammock between two trees and enjoy a cool, laid-back experience.
Sky Map for Stargazing
Star gazing is a fun camping activity, especially when you know what you're looking at. Bring a sky map with you and challenge your family to find their favorite constellations. You can even schedule your trip around meteor showers for an unforgettable experience. Learn more about meteor showers at Stardate.
