{"id":2122,"date":"2023-06-14T19:06:06","date_gmt":"2023-06-14T19:06:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/?p=2122"},"modified":"2024-06-05T18:23:04","modified_gmt":"2024-06-05T18:23:04","slug":"the-ultimate-guide-to-summer-camping","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/the-ultimate-guide-to-summer-camping\/","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Guide to Summer Camping"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>** Celebrating one of our favorite months, June, which is also National Camping Month! Show Us Your BWCAW permit up to 10 days from your entry date and get $5 off your purchase in-store only. Minimum of $15 purchase only. For the month of June only. **<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Camping may be the ultimate summer escape. It puts you back in touch with nature \u2014 something many humans rarely experience in daily life. It gives you uninterrupted time to bond with loved ones without the distraction of screens. Best of all, it\u2019s affordable for any budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, knowing what to do \u2014 and avoid \u2014 can significantly enhance your enjoyment of your trip. It also pays to get mindful. What activities and environments do you enjoy, and what irritates you? Finally, the right gear and preparation help you avoid dangers on the dusty trail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you ready to load up the family truckster and get a little wild? Here\u2019s your ultimate guide to summer camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2><strong>To Boondock or Seek Amenities?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your first decision is whether you prefer the convenience of a paid campsite or the solitude afforded by boondocking. Both camping styles have advantages and disadvantages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Pros of Paid Campsites<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Paid campsites provide amenities, regardless of whether you pack a tent or RV. Many such facilities have the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Running water:&nbsp;<\/strong>Huge for getting clean and using the restroom<\/li><li><strong>Designated sites:&nbsp;<\/strong>No worrying that someone took your favorite spot. You&#8217;ll also have electric and water hookups if you reserve an RV site and a place to empty your tanks.<\/li><li><strong>Sports courts:&nbsp;<\/strong>If your family enjoys volleyball, pickleball or basketball<\/li><li><strong>Designated pet areas:&nbsp;<\/strong>For Fido<\/li><li><strong>Child care:&nbsp;<\/strong>A few campsites have paid childcare and special activities for the kids to give caregivers a break<\/li><li><strong>Stores:&nbsp;<\/strong>Many campsites have small general stores to buy drinking water, firewood, and snacks<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4><strong>The Cons of Paid Sites<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Paid sites can get crowded, so if you seek solitude, you might opt for boondocking. Additionally, all those people in a small area can make things pretty stinky around the latrine area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Advantages of Boondocking<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Boondocking means going off-grid camping with no access to amenities. It takes place on&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/go.campendium.com\/what-is-boondocking\/\">dispersed campsites on public lands<\/a>, typically out west. That means you must carry portable power, any water you need \u2014 everything. Depending on your gear and setup, it can range from truly rugged to quite pleasant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many people gravitate to boondocking when they don\u2019t want to deal with crowds. It\u2019s perfect for when you want to be alone, but you are ultimately responsible for getting yourself safely in and out of your site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Tent or RV Camping?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If it\u2019s the \u201croughing it\u201d experience you crave, you can\u2019t beat a tent. It\u2019s also the most affordable camping method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tent camping doesn\u2019t have to mean discomfort. Consider some of these upgrades to make your stay more cozy:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>A roof mount:&nbsp;<\/strong>To increase your safety and keep critters out, look for a tent that attaches to your SUV\u2019s roof.<\/li><li><strong>An air mattress or cot roll:&nbsp;<\/strong>An air mattress or small flat cot between your sleeping bag and tent bottom keeps you off the cold ground and rocks.<\/li><li><strong>A welcome mat:&nbsp;<\/strong>A ratty old piece of carpet outside your tent\u2019s door works wonders for keeping dirt out.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you live in a desert region, a sunshade is also invaluable for keeping your tent cool during the day, as shade is hard to find. Ensure you leave&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/koa.com\/blog\/tips-for-staying-cool-on-summer-camping-trips\/\">at least 12 inches of space<\/a>&nbsp;between the top of the tent and the sunshade to allow sufficient airflow to cool things down inside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>RVs make camping more like glamping, as you can access an enclosed indoor space and a limited running water supply. If you don\u2019t own such a vehicle, you can now rent one from major sites like Cruise America or directly from owners on sites like Outwander. Most RVs have small bathrooms and kitchens, making cooking and cleaning up much easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2><strong>Keeping Cool Under the Summer Sun<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unless you own or rent an RV, you won\u2019t have access to air conditioning when summer camping. That means the heat is on \u2014 how can you stay comfortably cool?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Cooling Methods<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Water is your friend for keeping cool. If you find a natural waterway, use it to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Dampen a towel or clothing:&nbsp;<\/strong>Wet clothes are cooler except in extreme humidity. For mild discomfort, a cool, damp towel around your neck drops your body temperature a few degrees.<\/li><li><strong>Spritz:&nbsp;<\/strong>If you have one of those handheld misting fans, fill it up and use it.<\/li><li><strong>Pulse points:&nbsp;<\/strong>If you don&#8217;t want to submerge yourself, try letting cool water run over the pulse points at your wrists and ankles. Your blood is closer to the surface, and the cooling effect travels.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You shouldn&#8217;t drink water from a natural source without purifying it. A set of water purification tablets is a wise thing to add to your utility belt or backpack, and many filtration straws have loops that let you clip and carry them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Stay Safe From Heat-Related Illness&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your number one rule is to stay hydrated. In general, you need about two cups of water for each hour of hiking, but your needs may vary depending on the climate and terrain. For example, temperatures in the southwest desert often soar into triple-digit territory during the day, requiring you to stay out of the sun and sip up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Learn the signs of heat-related illness before summer camping. Doing so could save a life. Watch out&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.dir.ca.gov\/dosh\/etools\/08-006\/whatis.htm\">for the following symptoms<\/a>, taking rest in the shade and hydrating if they occur:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Heavy sweating<\/li><li>Painful muscle cramps<\/li><li>Extreme weakness and fatigue<\/li><li>Nausea or vomiting<\/li><li>Dizziness or headache<\/li><li>Fast, weak pulse<\/li><li>Fast, shallow breathing&nbsp;<\/li><li>Clammy, pale moist skin&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you notice the following symptoms, the individual may have heat stroke \u2014 a medical emergency. Get them to a cool area and contact emergency personnel:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>No sweating because the body can no longer release heat<\/li><li>Mental confusion, delirium, hallucinations&nbsp;<\/li><li>Hot, dry skin<\/li><li>Throbbing headache<\/li><li>Shallow breathing and seizures<\/li><li>Rapid, weak pulse<\/li><li>Unconsciousness<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2><strong>Protecting Yourself From All Things Itchy<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You face two types of itch in the wild \u2014 plant contact and bug bites. Either one can leave you miserable. Learn to recognize the common offenders, like poison ivy, oak, and sumac. It&#8217;s worth taking a paid nature walk that points these out before your trip to avoid spending your vacation in Calamine Lotion City.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use a repellent containing DEET to ward off mosquitoes, which can carry diseases like the Zika virus and West Nile. When in tick country, wear long socks and pants when hiking, and inspect yourself after coming in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep your campsite less buggy by throwing a few green pieces of wood on your fire at night. Although these are&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/how-to-choose-stack-firewood-for-a-woodburning-stove-or-fireplace\/\">harder to burn and smokey<\/a>, the odor keeps flying pests at bay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2><strong>Keeping Safe From Critters&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Humans have established their predator reputation in the natural world, and most creatures you encounter will be more afraid of you than vice-versa. However, you must know how to protect yourself and your site when camping in bear country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep all food and garbage locked in a bear box or bear-resistant container. Many paid campsites provide these amenities for you. If boondocking, you\u2019ll need a bear pole or a hang set \u2014 including paracord and carabiners \u2014 to keep these items out of reach. Your hang&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/protecting-your-food-from-bears-other-wildlife-while-camping\/\">should be at least 12 feet<\/a>&nbsp;off the ground.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To protect yourself and your loved ones:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Carry bear spray:&nbsp;<\/strong>You can pick up this high-powered pepper spray for around $50 at most outfitters.<\/li><li><strong>Stay together:&nbsp;<\/strong>Big cats like pumas won\u2019t attack multiple targets. Keep little kids within easy reach \u2014 don\u2019t let them run ahead.<\/li><li><strong>Leash Fido:&nbsp;<\/strong>A curious dog can lure bears right back to your campsite.<\/li><li><strong>Make some noise:&nbsp;<\/strong>Most wild animals prefer to avoid humans. They\u2019re more dangerous when startled \u2014 especially if with their young. Let them hear you coming and get a bear bell if hiking alone.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2><strong>Hygiene in the Wild<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You might think, \u201cI\u2019m camping! Who cares if I stink?\u201d However, hygiene matters in the wild. If nothing else, you need a way to clean scrapes and cleanse your hands before eating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Carry a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/modded.com\/outdoors\/the-ultimate-first-aid-kit-checklist\/\">well-stocked first aid kit<\/a>&nbsp;with you. You can pick up versions meant for camping at many outdoor outfitters. In addition to what they include, add:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Hand sanitizer:&nbsp;<\/strong>There\u2019s a shortage of sinks on wild land, and soap and water aren\u2019t always available. Stash lots of it \u2014 including clip-on versions you can add to your backpack.<\/li><li><strong>Prescriptions:&nbsp;<\/strong>You can get a sweet emergency stash of your prescription medications at Jase Medical. Dedicated boondockers can also invest in a Jase Case \u2014 a supply of prescription antibiotics designed for truly worst-case scenarios when medical attention isn\u2019t coming.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2><strong>The Creature Comforts&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>What about the fun stuff? After all, camping is all about good times with family and friends. For that, you need food \u2014 and a game or two wouldn\u2019t hurt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What should you pack? If you don\u2019t have access to cooking supplies other than your campfire, think beyond marshmallows. A well-designed cooler can keep everything you need for a charcuterie board fresh and tasty. As these contain a variety of dried meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts and vegetables, they ensure you meet your nutritional needs without a stove or microwave. You can make&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/easy-charcuterie-board-recipes-and-recommendations\/\">a kid-friendly version with sliced hotdogs<\/a>&nbsp;or cold chicken nuggets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If taking an RV, you can\u2019t go wrong with a big crock of chili. A portable solar panel is often enough to run a slow cooker or you could invest in a sun oven \u2014 a device that uses solar energy to cook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A simple deck of cards is often enough entertainment for adults, but what if you have little ones? Take some games the entire family can enjoy. Some non-electronic treats they only get when camping \u2014 such as new coloring and activity books and crayons \u2014 can help ease the sting of not having internet access for a few days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2><strong>Get Ready to Go Camping&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Camping may be the perfect summer getaway this year. It can be very inexpensive \u2014 great for when your vacation budget doesn\u2019t have much wiggle room. Additionally, it reunites you with nature and what it is to be human in a world without electronic gadgets demanding constant attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use this ultimate guide to summer camping to plan your getaway. The quickest route to rest, relaxation, and a renewed sense of inner peace may lie along some dusty forest trail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Happy Adventuring, friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"480\" height=\"174\" src=\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/happy-adventures-blog-footer-1_480x480.png\" alt=\"Happy Adventures - Duluth Pack\" class=\"wp-image-1991\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/happy-adventures-blog-footer-1_480x480.png 480w, https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/happy-adventures-blog-footer-1_480x480-300x109.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Guest blog post contributed by:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/modded.com\/jack-author-portfolio\/\">Jack Shaw<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Camping may be the ultimate summer escape. It puts you back in touch with nature \u2014 something many humans rarely experience in daily life. It gives you uninterrupted time to bond with loved ones without the distraction of screens. Best of all, it\u2019s affordable for any budget.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":2123,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[2],"tags":[437,434,151,435,371,433,441,442,439,436,440,438,432],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v15.9.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The Ultimate Guide to Summer Camping - The Pack Report<\/title>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/the-ultimate-guide-to-summer-camping\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Ultimate Guide to Summer Camping - The Pack Report\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Camping may be the ultimate summer escape. It puts you back in touch with nature \u2014 something many humans rarely experience in daily life. It gives you uninterrupted time to bond with loved ones without the distraction of screens. Best of all, it\u2019s affordable for any budget.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/the-ultimate-guide-to-summer-camping\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"The Pack Report\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-06-14T19:06:06+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-06-05T18:23:04+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Optimized-Gavin-Weiers-Bushcraft-Shoot-B-200-Bedroll-1.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"600\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"900\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\">\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"8 minutes\">\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/\",\"name\":\"The Pack Report\",\"description\":\"The Latest Duluth Pack News\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/?s={search_term_string}\",\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/the-ultimate-guide-to-summer-camping\/#primaryimage\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Optimized-Gavin-Weiers-Bushcraft-Shoot-B-200-Bedroll-1.jpg\",\"width\":600,\"height\":900,\"caption\":\"Duluth pack campsite with bedroll bush crafter pack and utensil roll\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/the-ultimate-guide-to-summer-camping\/#webpage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.duluthpack.com\/blogs\/the-ultimate-guide-to-summer-camping\/\",\"name\":\"The Ultimate Guide to Summer Camping - 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