Wild camping represents any camping in areas outside of recognized campsites, whether that means stringing hammocks in the local woods or pitching tents on the mountainside.
Quickly increasing in popularity among outdoor lovers, wild camping is thought to be quite an adventurous, freeing, and pleasurable experience. However, it can quickly turn sour if you are not adequately prepared.
With that in mind, here are some of the most basic wild camping tips you should follow when going on this exciting, life-changing outdoor adventure for the first time:
1. The legality of wild camping
You might want to ask this question: Is wild camping legal? In most places around the world, wild camping is permitted on any land with public access, although it may not be officially legal.
Regions with a higher number of national parks, forests, and valleys that are suitable for wild camping might prove to be more favourable. If you plan on camping on private land, keep in mind that you need strict permission from the landowner to avoid any unpleasantries.
In any case, it is always best to research your destination in advance, including the local laws regarding wild camping and the best places to camp, as regulations can vary from one country to another.
2. Investing in sleeping gear
It is difficult to enjoy wild camping without a suitable sleeping bag, which is why it is recommended to have a separate sleeping bag for the colder and warmer months.
The unique design and the temperature rating of each sleeping bag are specifically calculated to maximize comfort depending on the climate and the environment. But if you need to stay warm in colder weather, sleeping bag liners, puffy jackets, thermal leggings, socks, as well as beanie hats can all be of great help when sleeping.
3. Choosing a high-quality tent
Unless you plan on wild camping underneath the starry sky, choosing the right tent will also be crucial. If you want to avoid the risk of being spotted, especially in areas with wild animals, consider brown or green tents.
In any instance, make sure to select a sturdy and weather-resistant tent that performs especially well in windy and wet conditions. This will keep you sheltered and safe regardless of the weather. You might want to think about a low profile due to its stability as well.
4. Packing your backpack
The most common mistake individuals make when wild camping for the first time is packing too much gear. While certain items may be essential, others will only add unnecessary weight and lead to tiredness and other complications.
Along with tents and sleeping gear, remember to pack some weather-resistant clothing to shield you from the elements. A quality otf knife is always a good investment, as it is the most practical tool you can have in the wild, helping with everything from pitching tents to preparing food.
Don’t forget emergency items either, such as a good first aid kit, firestarters, and emergency shelter.
5. Selecting the right camping spot
Many of the most helpful camping tips for beginners involve selecting the right spot for pitching your tent. It is generally recommended to avoid towns and other built-up areas.
Wooded areas could be particularly reliable for first-timers, as they are often the calmest and most sheltered spaces. Avoid exposed areas when the weather is unreliable, go for softer ground if possible, and steer clear of any dead branches or trees in the vicinity.
If you get the opportunity, consider camping near a water source (not too close due to safety reasons) to ensure you have enough water for drinking, cleaning, etc.
6. Considering food and water
Enjoying a hot meal when camping may be pleasant, but long hikes and tent preparations could be quite tiring as well.
What’s more, you could also encounter surprisingly bad weather when camping, which could make cooking in the wild nearly impossible. For that reason, you should always carry an extra cold meal and some snacks you could have in the mornings or evenings.
Unless you are camping near a water source and have a reliable filtration system, it is also recommended to pack enough water to last the entire trip, just in case.
7. Knowing how to act
No matter where you decide to wild camp, you should always follow the universal etiquette for a pleasant experience. Arriving late and leaving early is recommended for route planning.
Open fires shouldn’t be lit without proper experience and express permission. You should never camp in places that could potentially disturb the local wildlife or other people.
Above all, you shouldn’t leave any trace, which means that you should take back everything you’ve brought with you, including litter, to prevent any further disturbances on the land.
Basic wild camping tips for beginners
Here are some basic wild camping tips you should follow today:
- The legality of wild camping.
- Investing in the right sleeping gear.
- Choose a high-quality tent.
- Packing your backpack.
- Select the right camping spot.
- Consider food and water.
- Knowing how to act.
Even though wild camping is incredibly enjoyable, it can also be quite overwhelming for beginners. Use the essential tips above to get started and ensure a pleasant and stress-free wild camping experience.
Lilly Miller is a Sydney-based graphic designer and a passionate writer. Loves everything about home decor, art history, and baking. She shares a home with two loving dogs and a gecko named Rodney.
