Blog: Want to go camping but don't know where to start? Check out these camping tips for beginners!
Camping and spending time outdoors have many benefits, from helping with your mental health, reducing stress, and increasing physical fitness to building relationships, creating long-lasting memories, and developing various skills.
But for some people, camping for the first time can be intimidating. It could be perceived as too much work, expensive, or technical. But camping can be very fun, affordable, and accessible for everyone.
Are you one of those people who want to go camping but don't know where to start?
HECHO spoke with Elisabeth Haugan, communications coordinator of Arizona State Parks and Trails, who shared the misconceptions about camping, helpful tips for beginners, the gear you actually need, and much more!
What are the biggest myths that prevent people from going camping?
Elisabeth Haugan: I want to debunk the myth that camping is expensive and involves spending a lot of money on gear and equipment. Camping is actually a very inexpensive way to recreate and enjoy family time. Think about how much money you might spend on a vacation or just a trip to the mall. A campsite fee is often under $40 per night. In terms of equipment, if it is your first time, borrow it from a friend to see if you like it before you buy it. You don't need to go to a specialized store or buy a top-of-the-line tent; there are plenty of options in discount stores or online that fit any budget.
The other myth that keeps people from going camping is the perception that you will be exposed to the elements of nature or that camping is uncomfortable. There are different ways to camp to meet different comfort levels.
For instance, Arizona State Parks has campsites, but some locations offer rustic cabins with bunk beds with mattresses, heat, and A.C. This provides you the opportunity to enjoy nature with a bit more comfort, yet have a fire ring, a picnic table, and trails right at your doorstep.
Another big myth is that you're exposed to the elements and uncomfortable, and I'm happy to say that there is a way for everybody to enjoy camping. And if you are someone who likes your extra pillows, you like to be warm at night. There's a way to do that. You just need to know all the different types of camping that you can enjoy.
If you want to adventure and test your limits, bring your tent, but if you want to sleep more comfortably, bring an air mattress. There are different ways to tackle any comfort issue you can think of inside your tent.
The last myth is the fear of being outside at night and what you can run into in the dark. I would say the best way to confront our fears is to learn about them. If that's a concern you have, a first step may not be to spend a night camping outside but to join a full moon hike at the park or other guided programs to learn more about the wildlife in the area and the sounds of nature.
And remember, there are always rangers at the campsite to protect you and teach you what is around. The most important is to take that first step!
What are the camping must-haves?
Elisabeth Haugan: It is essential to be prepared for a good and safe camping experience, but again, it doesn’t have to be expensive. Here is an essential camping checklist to get you started:
A tent and a tarp. Make sure the tent fits the number of family members that are traveling with you. Before you travel, check the weather and always keep a camping tarp, which you can use to put on the top of your tent if there is heavy rain, or on the ground to insulate the bottom of your tent and protect it from getting wet. You can also use a tarp if it is hot and sunny outside and you need the extra shade. It is a very useful piece of gear.
A sleeping bag, a sleeping pad to provide cushioning and insulation, or an air mattress. Each person is different, so think of what works for you and your family.
Food and water. Regardless of whether it is just for one night, a weekend, or a week, make sure you need enough food and water for yourself and everyone in the family.
Always bring more water than what you think you will need.
A propane camp stove. Sometimes, due to fire restrictions, you may not be able to use the fire ring at your campsite, so it is always good to bring an alternative to cook your meals, like a propane camp stove. Another tip is to bring tin foil with you. If you wrap any kind of food in it and put it in the fire, you will have an amazing meal!
A lantern, headlamp, or flashlight. You need a light source when you are at a campground. A headlamp is helpful because your hands are free to do other stuff, like cooking or going to the bathroom, for instance, but a big flashlight or lantern can be helpful to provide enough light for the family.
Layer and clothing appropriate to the weather. Sometimes, in Arizona, we can get four seasons in a day. Make sure to bring layers and be clothed properly for the weather conditions.
A map. It is important to be prepared with a park map, either paper or electronic. Get the family together to take note of any landmarks around the campsite, so everyone knows how to get back if lost.
Other essentials include sunscreen, a hat, a pocketknife, and a first-aid kit.
What are other important considerations for those first-time campers?
Elisabeth Haugan: There are other important things to consider while camping.
Noise restrictions. Campgrounds are one of the friendliest places in the world, but we need to be good neighbors. Keep music low and respect the designated nighttime quiet hours, during which you are expected to turn off your generator or the music at the campground.
Be mindful about your trash. Keep your campsite better than you found it. Bring bags and pick up your trash before leaving. Ensure you don't leave trash out at night because raccoons and other animals can tear your garbage apart and make a mess.
Be aware of fire restrictions in place. There are ways to enjoy camping even when there are fire restrictions. Follow the rules, use the designated fire rings, and make sure your fire is cold and dead before going to bed.
Are there programs or resources for people wanting to try camping with a group?
Elisabeth Haugan: Arizona State Parks offers the Arizona Family Campout program. It's $90 for a family of four and $5 for each additional family member for a weekend. We provide all the equipment -you just need to bring your sleeping bag and toothbrush- and we will teach you all about camping and recreation opportunities at the campground and park.
Read more camping tips here.