Time to Start Planning a Camping Trip for this Spring!

As the weather warms up, we all want to get outside more. Camping is the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors with friends and family and is considered a relatively safe activity amid the Coronavirus pandemic. To start planning a camping trip for your vacation this spring/summer, use these five tips.

Choose a Location

To ensure a smooth camping trip, avoid unnecessary spontaneity. Research and plan thoroughly ahead of time. Find a campsite that suits your groups’ needs—and meets their expectations for amenities. Perhaps you’re a camping pro: opt for a simplified campsite with just the basic necessities. For those who want a more relaxed environment,  give “glamping” a try and find a campground with restrooms, running water and electricity.

Need some inspiration? Here are 19 camping destinations to try during COVID. No matter your preference, place reservations and learn the rules of your site well in advance. 

Plan Your Meals

While hot dogs are a staple of the camping experience, you and your friends can get creative and plan delicious and nutritious meals, too. For a simple breakfast or dinner, prepare foil meals to cook over the fire or bring eggs and pre-chopped veggies for a hearty scramble.

Decide on Activities

Beyond hanging out at the campsite, determine what other activities you’ll be doing on your trip. Scope the area around your site for hiking trails. If you’re lucky enough to be near the water, consider fishing, swimming, or kayaking. Create a loose itinerary for the trip to help things run smoothly.

Remember, you may not have great cell reception at your site—so it’s important to write down or print itinerary details ahead of time. 

Determine What to Pack

Once you pick your location and plan the activities, begin thinking of what you’ll need to pack. Because you won’t be able to quickly run to the store if you’ve forgotten something, use a packing checklist to stay organized. Depending on your camping situation, you may not need every item on this list, but it’s a good place to start.

In addition, come equipped with items to keep safe and clean like surface disinfectants and hand sanitizer. 

Remember General Precautions for COVID-Friendly Camping

Camping is a fun yet safe activity during the ongoing pandemic. However, it doesn’t come without risks. Before your trip, read through the CDC’s guidelines for visiting parks and recreational facilities:

• Keep your group small with family or close friends.
• Practice social distancing by setting up your campsite away from other sites.
• If you have an RV, use your restroom instead of the public ones.
• Take precautions around the campfire: smoke can lead to coughing and possible spread of the virus.

With the right precautions, escaping to the great outdoors is an excellent idea for this spring/summer—so start planning a camping trip now! Check out these suggestions for local getaways for even more inspo!