In the modern age, spending time with friends and family away from the distraction of digital devices can seem nigh on impossible. The solution to the digital fatigue is simple: nature. Escaping to the wild with a group of friends is a rewarding and memorable experience, but it’s one that should be planned.
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To ensure that everyone returns safely and you get the most out of your group camping trip, adopt the Boy Scout’s model and always be prepared. Safe camping won’t be a chore if you follow these tips.
1. Pack the Right Clothes
One of the most important considerations when planning a group camping trip is the weather. Murphy’s law will always apply: anything that can go wrong will go wrong. Even if the forecasted weather is stellar, be prepared for storms, rain, or snow.
For that reason, protective clothing is a must. Start with a breathable, moisture-wicking layer, preferably with long sleeves and pants to keep out the bugs and sun. If there’s a chance of cold, add insulating layers. Then, bring the proper outerwear for the season. Pack lightweight waterproof jackets in the summer and windproof, waterproof coats in the winter.
Finally, take care of your feet. The right socks are truly a necessity for any good outdoor adventure. Most campers prefer wool socks, with merino wool being the best of the best.
Yet socks are worthless if they get wet. To prevent this problem, make sure to waterproof your boots. The best outdoor boots are waterproof, but never fear if your boots aren’t. It’s remarkably easy to waterproof boots yourself using a wax or spray.
Being prepared for the weather can mean more than just bring the right protective gear. It's worthwhile to also remember Bear Grylls’ secret camping tip and make sure you have spare, dry clothing.
2. Organize Your Gear
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As the number of people on the trip increases so does the amount of stuff you have to bring. In order to keep track of everything and avoid leaving anything vital behind, organization should come first!
After you’ve narrowed down your list, make sure your gear is packed properly. Taking time to think about where everything is stashed will cut down on those moments where you have to rummage through your whole back for a single match.
Packing a backpack is all about weight distribution. The lightest gear should go on the bottom, the heaviest against your back in the middle, and the most important items should be right on top. Any oversized or bulky items, like tent poles, can be attached to the outside of the pack.
3. Fuel Up
As pretty anyone who went on a long trip would say, food is essential to keeping people happy. In the wilderness, eating properly becomes all the more important. Without the right fuel, long hikes and outdoor adventures become exponentially more difficult.
To combat this problem on a group camping trip, make sure to bring enough provisions to feed everyone. Trail mix, power bars, and meal replacement bars are always good for a quick burst of energy. However, these snacks won’t satisfy in the long run and aren’t much fun to prepare.
Rather than relying solely on prepared food, try campsite cooking. The whole group can get involved and the end result of food straight from the fire is immensely satisfying.
4. Location, Location, Location
On the surface, the right camping location might not seem like a safety requirement. However, one falling tree branch or mudslide could ruin a trip quickly. Choosing a safe location is, therefore, one of the most important group decisions of the trip.
Your group might opt for an established campsite, in which case the only thing you need to do is be good stewards. For those looking to go off the beaten path and go stealth camping, there are several factors that go into choosing a safe campsite.
Make sure the ground is relatively even or flat, avoiding depressions, gorges, and exposed hilltops. Proper drainage is a must for anyone who hates sleeping in a puddle, so avoid wet areas and valley floors. Consider the shelter in the area as well, but make sure there aren’t any dead tree branches overhead. Finally, aim to minimize your impact by camping in away from fragile vegetation. Always leave no trace so that future generations can enjoy the area as much as your group did.
Final Thoughts
Camping solo can be a refreshing and invigorating experience, but sometimes the joy needs to be shared. Friends and family in the wild can enjoy good company without the stresses of modern life, while also challenging their own survival skills.
Camping solo can be a refreshing and invigorating experience, but sometimes the joy needs to be shared. Friends and family in the wild can enjoy good company without the stresses of modern life, while also challenging their own survival skills.
Safely planning a group camping trip doesn’t have to be a headache. Keep in mind a few important rules, and a group trip can be just as fulfilling as a small one.