If you’re new to car camping, you may be wondering what what is car camping exactly! Camping with your car is a great way to get started camping – it’s affordable and easy to set up. Plus, you have a lot of the comforts of home with you!
But there are a few things to know before you go. Check out this guide for everything you need to know about car camping.
Here are five must-knows before your first trip. Happy trails!
What Is Car Camping?
If you’ve ever gone hiking or backpacking, chances are you’ve considered car camping. Car camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to carry all of your gear on your back. However, if you’ve never been car camping before, it can be a bit daunting.
Car camping is a type of camping in which you drive your vehicle to the campsite rather than hiking in with all of your gear. This means that you can bring more gear with you, which can make for a more comfortable trip. However, it also means that you’ll have to set up and take down your campsite each time you want to camp.
How do I choose a campsite?
When it comes to choosing a campsite for car camping, you have many options. You can camp in designated campsites at state or national parks, or you can find free campsites on public lands. You can also camp in your own backyard! If you’re planning on going to a specific destination, it’s a good idea to book your campsite in advance so that you know there will be a spot for you when you arrive.
If you’re not sure where to start looking for a campsite, websites like Hipcamp and Campendium are great resources. They provide detailed information about different campsites around the country, including photos, maps, and reviews from other campers.
Car camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to backpack in with all of your gear. With car camping, however, comes the responsibility of setting up and taking down your own campsite each time you want to camp. But don’t let that deter you!
BEST CAR CAMPING TENTS – https://wildlandtrekking.com/wildland-gear-guide/best-car-camping-tents/
How to Prepare for a Car Camping Trip
Car camping is a great way to get outside and enjoy nature without having to backpack into the wilderness. It also doesn’t require as much gear as traditional camping, which can be expensive. However, when I think what is car camping, it doesn’t take long for me to realize that car camping does require some preparation in order to have a successful trip:
- Choose your campsite: One of the most important aspects of preparing for a car camping trip is choosing your campsite. There are a few things you’ll want to take into account when making your decision. First, consider the distance from your car. You’ll want to be close enough to unload your gear easily, but not so close that you’re cramped for space. Second, think about the amenities you want. Some campsites have flush toilets and running water while others are more primitive. Lastly, make sure to check the weather forecast and choose a site that will be comfortable in the expected conditions.
- Pack your gear: Once you’ve chosen your campsite, it’s time to start packing your gear. The first thing you’ll need is a tent. Make sure to choose one that’s big enough for everyone in your group and that has all the features you need (e.g., waterproof, bug-proof). Next, you’ll need sleeping bags and pads or cots. Again, make sure everyone in your group has what they need to be comfortable at night. Finally, don’t forget things like food, cookware, and chairs.
- Prep your car: Before you hit the road, it’s important to give your car a once-over to make sure everything is in good working order. This includes checking the fluid levels, tires, brakes, and lights. You should also pack an emergency kit in case of breakdowns or accidents. This kit should include things like jumper cables, flares, first-aid supplies, and a spare tire.
- Hit the road: Once you’ve got your campsite reserved and your gear packed, it’s time to hit the road! Make sure to take breaks every few hours so everyone stays refreshed and doesn’t get too cranky on the drive. Also, keep an eye out for wildlife when driving through rural areas – animals like deer can cause serious damage to your car if they dart out in front of you!
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your next car camping trip is safe and enjoyable for everyone involved!
How to Pack for a Car Camping Trip
If you’ve never been car camping before, it can be tricky to know what to pack. Below I’ll give you the 4 main basics of how and what to pack for your first car camping trip, including everything from what kind of shelter to bring to what food to pack.
Shelter: When it comes to shelter, you have a few options. You can either bring a tent, an RV, or a campervan. If you’re bringing a tent, make sure that it’s big enough for everyone in your group and that you have all the necessary parts and pieces (poles, rain fly, etc.). If you’re bringing an RV or a campervan, you’ll also need to make sure that it’s properly stocked with all the essentials like bedding, food, and cookware.
Check out our recent article on all things tent camping here >>
Cooking Gear: No matter what type of shelter you’re bring on your car camping trip, you’re going to need some cooking gear. At the very least, you’ll need something to cook on (a camp stove or a barbecue) and something to eat out of (plates and bowls). If you want to get really fancy, you can also bring things like a Dutch oven or a cast iron skillet.
Food: Even though you won’t be hiking for miles with all your gear on your back, you still need to carefully consider what food you’re going to bring on your car camping trip. After all, you’ll likely be spending several days in the wilderness without access to grocery stores. So, make sure that you pack enough non-perishable food items to last the entire trip. Also, don’t forget about packing some snacks and drinks for the drive!
Clothing: What clothing you pack will depend largely on the time of year that you’re going car camping. In general, though, you should pack clothes that can easily be layered. That way, if the weather gets cold at night or in the morning, you can simply put on an extra layer or two. And if it gets hot during the day, you can take some layers off. Just make sure that whatever clothes you do pack are comfortable and easy to move around in.
Packing for your first car camping trip doesn’t have to be complicated—just focus on packing the essentials. Make sure that you have a place to sleep (tent/RV/campervan), cooking gear and food ,and clothing appropriate for the season . With these basics taken care of ,you’ll be well on your way To enjoying your first car camping adventure !
What to Wear on a Car Camping Trip
When car camping, you can bring all the comforts of home with you—including your wardrobe. However, what you wear on a car camping trip can make or break your experience. With a little careful planning, you can ensure that you’re comfortable no matter what the weather throws your way. Here’s what you need to know about what to wear on a car camping trip.
The Basics –
First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that you have the basics covered. This includes comfortable clothing that can be layered to accommodate changing temperatures. It’s also a good idea to pack extra socks and underwear in case your first pair gets wet.
If you’ll be doing any hiking or other activities that could result in scrapes or bruises, pack a first-aid kit so that you can treat any injuries right away. Finally, don’t forget to pack a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Comfortable Footwear is Key –
Whether you’re hiking during the day or simply walking around the campground, comfortable footwear is key on a car camping trip. Pack a pair of broken-in hiking boots if you plan on doing any serious hiking; otherwise, pack shoes or sneakers that are comfortable for walking long distances.
If you’ll be near water, it’s also a good idea to pack a pair of sandals or water shoes in case you want to take a dip. Regardless of what type of footwear you bring, make sure to pack extra socks so that your feet stay dry and comfortable.
Dressing for the Weather –
Of course, one of the most important factors to consider when deciding what to wear on a car camping trip is the weather. If you’re camping in an area with warm weather, pack lightweight clothing in light colors that will help keep you cool. On the other hand, if you’re expecting cooler temperatures, pack heavier items like jeans and sweaters.
Either way, it’s always a good idea to pack at least one long-sleeved shirt and one pair of long pants so that you’re prepared for mosquito season or chilly evenings around the campfire. And no matter what the forecast says, always pack a rain jacket—you never know when a thunderstorm will pop up.
Accessorizing for Comfort and Style –
Finally, don’t forget to pack those little extras that can make all the difference on a car camping trip. A scarf or bandana can be used as a headband, dust mask, or dish towel; binoculars come in handy for spotting wildlife; and a cotton bandana soaked in cool water makes an excellent cooling cloth on hot days.
A headlamp is also essential for evening hikes or late-night trips to the bathroom; just make sure to pack extra batteries so that it doesn’t die when you need it most. And last but not least, don’t forget your camera! After all, car camping is all about enjoying nature—and what better way to remember your trip than by capturing some beautiful photos?
With a little careful planning, packing the right clothing for your car camping trip is easy. Just remember the basics—comfortable layers, appropriate footwear, and weather-appropriate clothing—and don’t forget those little extras that can make all the difference between an OK trip and an amazing one!
What to Eat on a Car Camping Trip
One of the most difficult things when I think what is car camping is figuring out what to eat. Do you bring perishable items and risk them going bad? Or do you stick to non-perishable items that might not be as satisfying? And how do you cook anything when you’re camping without a stove?
Never fear, dear reader! I am here to help. Below, I will share some of my favorite car camping food hacks that will make your next trip a breeze. Bon appetit!
One of the best things about car camping is that you can bring all the comforts of home with you, including an ice chest full of delicious food and drinks. But what should you put in your cooler? Here are a few of my favorite items that travel well and will make your campsite feel like a five-star restaurant:
- Sausages – Sausages are easy to cook and can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Plus, they come in so many delicious flavors these days that there’s sure to be one that everyone in your group will love. My personal favorites are chicken apple sausage and kielbasa, but feel free to experiment! Just make sure to pack extra napkins—these can be messy little buggers.
- Peanut Butter – Peanut butter is a camping staple for a reason—it’s easy to eat, it doesn’t need to be refrigerated, and it’s packed with protein. I like to add some chocolate chips to my peanut butter for an added boost of energy (and because chocolate makes everything better).
- Chips and Salsa – A classic for a reason, chips and salsa are the perfect accompaniment to any meal or can be eaten on their own as a snack. Pico de gallo is my personal favorite salsa, but again, there are so many amazing options out there that it’s hard to go wrong. Just be sure to pack some extra chips—these tend to disappear quickly!
- Fresh Fruit – While fresh fruit won’t last as long as some of the other items on this list, it’s always nice to have something healthy (and delicious) to snack on while you’re hiking or exploring your surroundings. My favorites are grapes, apples, and bananas, but any type of fruit will do. Just make sure to eat it before it has a chance to go bad!
- Wine – OK, so wine technically isn’t food but it’s an essential part of any car camping trip in my book (as long as someone in your group is over 21, of course). A nice bottle of red or white wine pairs perfectly with any meal and makes for a relaxing end to a long day spent outdoors. Just don’t forget the wine opener!
Car camping is an inexpensive and accessible way to experience the great outdoors.
Car camping is a great way to get outside and enjoy the beauty of nature without having to carry all your gear on your back. When it comes to choosing a campsite for car camping, you have many options. You can camp in designated campsites at state or national parks, or you can find free campsites on public lands. It also doesn’t require as much gear as traditional camping, which can be expensive. If you’re new to car camping, here are four basics that will help you pack for your first trip: shelter, cooking gear, food, and clothing.
With a little careful planning, packing the right clothing for your car camping trip is easy. Just remember the basics—comfortable layers, appropriate footwear, and weather-appropriate clothing.
What’s your next backpacking adventure? Let us know below in the comments!
