How to Plan A Camping Trip: The Complete Guide
We can all agree that camping is a great way to connect with nature, but that’s just the beginning. There are a myriad of benefits to spending a night under the stars. Camping has proven to help reduce stress, develop new skills, strengthen relationships with family and friends, among many other great things. Planning a camping trip begins with having a passion for the great outdoors. Whether you’re a new camper or a veteran, here you’ll find tips and tricks for your next adventure. To begin, you must solidify your group and select a date. Once that is out of the way the rest is history!
Where are the best places to Camp in the US?
These days it is much easier for seasoned campers and first-timers to plan every stage of their camping trip. With the help of the internet and mobile applications, finding a campground is at your fingertips. Some things to consider include your preference of campground: private or public. Private campgrounds offer better extensive amenities and reservations are typically easier to book. Obviously better amenities come with a price, so anticipate a higher cost. Public campgrounds are significantly cheaper and often offer the most scenic experience of each region. Just beware that access to bathrooms and sometimes electricity may be limited. We suggest doing your research before booking. Sometimes it’s nice to play miniature golf surrounded by nature and other times it’s nice to relax under a moonlit sky under the stars.
Top Destinations:
Glacier National Park, Montana
Price: $15-$25 per vehicle
If you haven’t visited the big sky country, it’s time to pack up and set up camp. This park offers miles of hiking trails, world-class fishing, alpine lakes, open land, and some of the best views of Montana. To truly understand, you just got to see for yourself! Not to mention, Glacier National Park has been voted among the best national parks for camping numerous times.
Hot Spring National Park, Arkansas
Price: $10 per vehicle
Who would ever guess the U.S. would have a national spa? Head over to Hot Springs National Park for your spa treatment in the glory of nature. Where you can also enjoy a peaceful horseback ride through the Ouachita Mountains. Explore the history of the national park with countless hiking trails to choose from and tours readily available. End your stay with a cozy bonfire next to people you will never forget.
Arches National Park, Utah
Price: $10 per vehicle
The red rock landscape at Arches National Park will feel dream-like and perhaps make you question whether you’ve entered another dimension. Hiking, cycling, stargazing, horseback riding and plenty of more fun for everyone to enjoy everything the park has to offer. Go wander, get lost, and embrace the other-worldly views of a lifetime.
The Vineyards Campground & Cabins, Texas
Price: $54 — $158 (price varies on accommodations)
This place offers the best of both worlds. You can camp if you so desire or you can rent a lovely cabin for that home away from home feel. With plenty of fun things to do including kayaking, hiking trails, and lounging around in the private beach, you’ll never want to return to your day-to-day responsibilities.
Gear Up:
The top three basic essentials you will need: a place to sleep, something to sleep on, and food. We’ve put together a list of things to consider when shopping for your camping trip.
Tent
This is your shelter for your weekend. Tents come in all shapes, sizes and styles so shop around for one that suits you and your group.
Dome Tents: Super versatile and most common tent for camping due to their practical use. Perfect for camping with friends and family.
Backpacking Tents: Are categorized by capacity and seasonality. Most hikers will choose a 3-season tent because in most cases people will refrain from camping under terrible weather conditions. A 3-season tent can still withstand rainy days and light snow, so don’t you worry!
Sleeping Bags:
Couple’s Sleeping Bag: Cuddle up with your significant other in a couple’s sleeping bag. Includes pillows and a built-in thick blanket to keep you warm if the weather dips into the 30s F.
Kids Sleeping Bags: Make sure your little ones sleep comfortably with enough room to fit their favorite stuffed animal and just the right amount of insulation.
Camping Sleeping Pads: This is such an important item to ensure you get that extra cushion at night.
First-Aid Kit: You just never know what will happen in the woods. There’s always a clumsy person in a group, so it’s best to be safe than sorry for any campground mishaps. Check your local drugstore for your first aid kit.
Water: You already know this, but it never hurts to remind you to pack enough water. Drinking water and extra water to rinse your body (depending on where you’re staying), to brush your teeth, to cook etc. You might want to invest in a cooler, water jugs, and a portable water filter.
Camp Stove: Most campsites have charcoal grills, which is great for some meals, but dishes that require a pot will need a camp stove. You can find a propane stove anywhere from $35 to $80.
Knife: Of all the tools you could use at a campground, a good old utility knife will be the most versatile. You can use it to chop up some kindling for a fire, clear out some weeds or even cook!
Lamps & Flashlights: While lanterns are typically associated with camping, we don’t recommend using them as they get hot and attract bugs. Instead, buy a lamp to set up in your campsite and flashlights for moving around.
Chairs & Hammocks: You can’t enjoy the great outdoors without having something to lounge in to soak it all in. Pack a journal, a book, or even take a nap with a view. All it takes is investing in a hammock. Enjoy conversations and story-telling next to your loved ones with your portable camping chairs. Check your local department store for the best deals.
Top Deals to Look Out For:
Luckily for all campers, there’s a plethora of options when it comes to where to purchase your essential gear. That means there are plenty of deals out there to help get your camping kickstarted for less! Some of the most well known merchants are Bass Pro Shops, Camping World and Cabelas, but look for a local camping store, they might have special sales!
We’ve compiled a list of some current deals from bigger merchants to get you on your way!
- Bass Pro Shops — 40% Off Premium Outdoor Gear | National Anti Boredom Month
- Cabelas — Up to 50% Off Outdoor Clothing
- Target — Up to $150 Off Family Tents
- Walmart — Ozark Trail Heavy-Duty Camp Over-fire Grill starting at $24.44
- Dick’s Sporting Goods — Up to $80 Off Tents | Prep For Camping Season
- Home Depot — Camping Gear & Essentials Under $50
- Camping World — Take $10 Off $99+ Orders
If you’re not quite ready to go camping right now but know you want to in the future, keep your eyes glued to Raise Coupons to make sure you get the best price on all your gear!
