"What camping tips for couples do you know?"
A friend and his wife asked me this question two weeks ago. The two got interested in camping after I posted awesome pictures on Twitter when I was winter hiking in Nebraska. They said they want to experience the outdoors, too. As a busy couple trying to build their respective careers, I did feel refreshed that they want to take a little break.
So I gave them some useful insights as to how to camp as a couple. Gladly, they got it right. Now, do you want to know the things that I shared with them?
The first thing that I've told them is to start small. Take some baby steps! Admittedly, these two people are exceptionally great in ascending their corporate careers. However, when it comes to outdoor adventures, there are still neophytes.
I have to make an assumption that not all people have experience in camping. Of course, if you and your partner have been making backpacking and camping trips, you might not need this guide anymore. You can skip my lectures, and just head off to wherever you want to camp.
But here, starting small is essential. You don't want your camping trip to be overwhelmed by numerous factors. You have to go easy at first so that you can have a good feeling about the overall trip.
Remember, the goal of a couple of camping is to have fun and relaxation. Don't betray this purpose on your first trip.
Of course, I also emphasized that pleasurable and memorable camping is only possible if you have the right camping gear. Surely enough, the two made a checklist of the things that I have mentioned.
When it comes to couple camping, the right gears play an essential role. The protection and comfort of you and your partner heavily rely on them.
Fortunately, you don't have to bring too many items on a camping adventure. Trust me. I will never recommend bringing your entire home on a weekend adventure.
Here are the essentials that you need to pack if you and your significant half is planning to camp:
When it comes to a sleeping bag, insulation and ventilation are essential factors. Make sure that you pick the right one that suits the setting and condition of your camping destination.
For instance, it is appropriate to dress in layers if you are going to camp in cold conditions. Wear at least three layers--starting from the shirt to the fleece or jacket. If it is hot, then wear loose clothes, but avoid those that have been tailored from cotton.
Wear caps, hats, and beanies to defend yourself from the heat of the sun. Also, don't forget sunglasses, too.
Carefully select your pants and undergarments. Make sure that they can provide comfort and protection at the same time. A simple camping excursion during spring or summer would only need breathable pants or shorts.
In choosing footwear, you have to mind the fit. A pair of shoes that are too tight or too loose will give you a bad time.
The construction is also an essential factor. Choose breathable ones if the weather is temperate and humid. Meanwhile, if it is cold and snowy, pick footwear that is tailored from full-grain leather.
You can get a pre-assembled first-aid kit if you want to save yourself from the hassle for guesswork. Or if you have plenty of time, you can assemble one. Don't forget to pack bandages, blisters, adhesive tape, a myriad of over-the-counter medicines, disinfecting ointment, and gauze pads.
Other Campsite Utilities:
Cooking Utilities:
Getting lost on a camping trip should always be out of the options. Before you camp, you have to make sure that you know your terrain. Specifically, you need to know the paths that will take you to camping grounds. You also need to identify the possible alternative routes for emergencies.
Having a map of the place is extremely beneficial. Bringing a compass and a GPS device can also prevent you from being lost.
Before the trip, you might also want to ask some locals or guides about your destination. They are the ones that can give you a comprehensive layout of your camping group. They can tell you explicit details of the terrain, the wildlife present, the climate, and the places that you might want to avoid!
A perfect camping trip can be planned. From time to time, I always emphasize this to first-time outdoor goers.
One of the things that can ruin any trip--especially a lovey-dovey adventure--is bad weather. Keep in mind that once outdoors, you no longer have roofs or concrete structures that could protect you from the storm or any nasty inclement.
Lucky if you can encounter towering trees and gigantic leaves since they can work as natural canopies. But even they couldn't stop the rain or snow entirely.
Before you camp, it is essential that you can check the weather forecast. Look for the days where it is sunny and bright. These are the perfect days for camping or hiking!
You don't want to put your partner at stake--or yourself--during a camping trip. This activity is supposed to be fun. It should give you the leisure or breather that you need to escape the burdens of your "real life."
Moreover, it should serve as a good bonding for you guys! It can help develop your relationship and make it stronger and more fulfilling than before.
Taking risks during the excursion is not a good thing, especially if your lover or significant half is not up for it. You should not seek thrill if it is unnecessary. Yes. It might be fun and exciting for you. But what about your partner? Will he or she be about it?
Camping is a perfect venue for picnics and weekend cookouts. Many strong relationships were built while eating in front of the bonfires, and that's something that every couple should look forward to.
However, the food that I am talking about here is not just about the delicacies during dinner time. It also involves the things that you are going to munch throughout the journey.
Again, if your campground requires traversing, you need enough replenishment. Energy bars, chocolates, nuts, and jerkies are some of the sumptuous treats that couples can enjoy while trekking and walking. They are not heavy on the tummy but provide enough energy so that you can cover the entire journey.
When you are with someone during an outdoor pursuit, you need to be conscious of your hygiene. Inevitably, you will smell bad during the trip. From the sweat down to the dust and grime that can stick to your skin and clothes, these things can cause a foul odor.
Of course, you don't want that to happen. Even if your partner loves you, he or she will feel repulsed by your pungent smell. I am sure that you don't want that to happen.
Hence, it is necessary that you bring your personal hygiene kit. Deodorants, mouthwash, and wet wipes are among the key items that would keep you clean and scent-free. For women, it is crucial that they can bring their menstrual kits.
Always bear in mind that you are not the sole resident that Mother Nature is taking care of. Once you are in a forest or mountain, you are no longer the beings that dwell there.
In fact, you got to consider yourselves as visitors. Therefore, you have to be cautious about the other beings within your trail or campground.
Insects are your common neighbors here. They don't bear ill-intentions, but they can cause nuisance and potential hazards, especially if you are dealing with mosquitoes and bees. It is appropriate that you can bring insect repellents to counter these critters. Don't bring fragrant items, too, as they can attract these tiny beings as well.
Also, it would be prudent on your part if you have a bear spray with you. You just don't know when they will pop. Better be prepared than sorry.
Eventually, you and your partner will get used on any outdoor trip. You will soon learn the ropes and understand the complexities of camping, hiking, and backpacking. Overall, the more you do these activities with your other half, the more you can strengthen your relationship.
Outdoor adventures are not just good for the body. They are also good for the heart!
What other camping tips for couples that you know? Share it with us in the comment section below.
