Camping can be a relaxing mini-vacation as long as you take the time to plan. Organization is the key to unlocking a successful, enjoyable, camping trip that the whole family can savor. With scorching temperatures predicted in the Northeast this weekend, it looks like a spectacular time to go camping and retreat into the woods (and near the water).
Choosing A Camping Spot
We select campgrounds to visit based on activities offered and amenities that interest us.
- Larger, shaded campsites. This affords us plenty of room to set up our canopy over the table and set up yard games.
- Swimming Pool. This is a must in the summer for us. A deal breaker.
- Natural body of water. It could be a lake, stream, brook or river. Water is something we appreciate.
- Hook-ups. Even if you’re tent camping, it is beneficial to get a site with water and electric. It simplifies your life to have lights and easily accessible water.
- Activities. When the boys were smaller, we visited campgrounds that offered numerous activities geared toward children. One had an arcade, mini golf, laser tag, firetruck rides, and parades. It also had a large heated pool. We had a blast. It was also close to a river, where we rented tubes and floated for a couple hours.
- Alcohol. If you know you want to enjoy a beer or two in the evening next to the campfire, it’s a good idea to check the campground’s policy on alcohol before you reserve the site.
- Pets. Most campgrounds are pet-friendly. Remember to be considerate of other campers and clean up after your pet. Keep your dog on a leash, and if you leave the campground, make sure to take your pet along.
Plan Ahead
When you are prepared for your camping trip, you are less likely to make multiple trips to the store.
- Meals. Planning your meals for the time away from home will save you time and money. I usually dice peppers and onions at home, making meal prep a breeze. Make sure you include plenty of drinks, especially water.
- Weather. The weather is unpredictable. I always take jeans and a sweatshirt, even if it is supposed to be 90 degrees and sunny. We keep ponchos and an umbrella with our camping supplies, too, just to be safe!
- Ice. Thank goodness campgrounds sell ice. Keeping items cold in the cooler is a priority. There’s nothing worse than realizing at 10:00 PM that you need ice and the camp store is closed. Off to town, wherever that may be, to find bags of ice. Planning ahead avoids this crisis.
- Trash. At night, make sure your trash is not left outside to attract critters. We usually place the trash in the bed of the pick-up or in the back of an SUV. That way, you won’t wake up to a mess in the morning. Also, don’t leave any food outside, or you will likely have nighttime guests. We leave our coolers outside, with the lids closed tightly and have never had any issues.
Camp Kitchen
One of the biggest most memorable parts of any camping trip is the food! Cooking over the fire is so much fun! We even have a popcorn popper for the fire pit. Foil packs, mountain pies, hot dogs, and even grilling can be done over an open flame. Some necessities for a functional camper’s kitchen include:
- Aluminum Foil (heavy duty is best)
- Cooking spray
- Long Handled Lighter
- Long Handled Tongs
- Grilling Spatula or turner
- Pot Holders
- Cast Iron Cookware
- Percolator (or coffee maker) and coffee
- Wash basins (2)
- Salt & Pepper
- Condiments
- Butter
- Oil
- Hot Dog Forks
- Pie Irons
- Paper plate holders
- Paper plates (I prefer ones that are burnable)
- Silverware and cooking utensils
- Folding table (at least one)
- Tablecloths with clips
- Trash Bags
- Collapsible Trash Can
- Tabletop Grill or Portable Grill (propane is easiest)
- Camp Stove
- Sharp knives and cutting board
- Cooler
- Fire Poker
Other Camping Necessities
- Camp chairs
- Pop-up canopy. Protect your eating area from the elements. Hang lights from the canopy for a warm glow at night.
- Games and cards. We have fun playing games at night and on rainy days.
- Lanterns and flashlights for nighttime illumination when venturing out to the restroom or sitting at the table.
- Tiki torches or candles keep bugs away
- Bug Spray
- Sunscreen
- Clothesline and clothes pins to dry towels and swimwear
- Swimming apparel
- Walking/hiking shoes
- Bath and bed linens
- Toiletries/shower caddy/shower shoes (aka cheap flip-flops)
- Disinfecting wipes
- Scott’s outdoor wipes
- Hatchet
- Bungee cords
Regardless if you camp in a tent, camper, cabin, or RV, preparation for your trip is critical to ensure a care-free getaway. I know camping isn’t for everyone, but it is certainly an affordable way to travel. I look forward to hearing from you about your camping experiences. Also, if I have forgotten any camping necessities, let me know!
Until Next Time,
April (one happy camper)
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