Camping is a wonderful experience often overlooked or underestimated in our world. When you go camping over long weekends, it becomes one of the most beautiful things you can do for various reasons. It changes how you view holidays and long weekends and steers you away from the costly vacations you've been accustomed to.

But we understand that for some of you, camping might feel like a huge change you're not used to. It's quite different from hopping on a plane and staying in luxurious hotels you adore. Adjusting can be challenging because you won't be resting on a cozy mattress all the time; you'll need to get up and walk to the restrooms and showers.

Benefits of Choosing a Long Weekend for Your Outdoor Adventure

• Reverting to nature constitutes the primary allure of camping, in our estimation. Unlike a vacation package, wherein one is likely ensconced amid edifices and an abundance of tourists whose company they do not relish, camping eschews these trappings. Granted, during the zenith of summer, when the climate is resplendent, you may find yourself amidst numerous other jovial campers. However, it is often discernible that the campground becomes decidedly animated with activity.
• Camping bestows specific health benefits that are distinct to its milieu, and such experiences are unlikely to be encountered following a fortnight of dining at an all-inclusive resort. The initial health boon that we posit you will encounter is tethered to your psychological well-being. Analogous to all sojourns, existence assumes a more measured pace, and even though it does not necessitate international travel, it genuinely imparts the sensation of savoring a vacation to the utmost.
• The convenience of loading your vehicle with requisites and embarking on a camping expedition to any destination within the country is unparalleled. It is as uncomplicated as that. So long as your automobile boasts an adequate reservoir of fuel, you have ensured its roadworthiness for an extended voyage, and your camping essentials are in tow, this is the straightforward modus operandi for initiating a camping escapade.

How to Select the Perfect Camping Destination?

The process of selecting the most suitable campsite can exert a profound influence on your enjoyment of an extended weekend camping excursion. Issues such as inundated tents, toppled trees, or cacophonous neighbors have the potential to mar your outing. Nevertheless, these complications can be forestalled through prudent groundwork and strategic planning. Whether you opt for recreational vehicle (RV) camping, the assembly of a tent, or slumbering beneath the stars in a manner reminiscent of a rustic cowboy, ponder the following considerations when selecting the ideal camping locale.

• Look for a Flat Surface

While the importance of this may be diminished for those who choose to recline in a hammock, individuals employing alternative shelter solutions will invariably seek out a predominantly even surface for their lodgings. 

In cases where an entirely level expanse is unattainable, contemplate your predilection for slumbering on an incline. Some individuals, particularly after a protracted day of hiking, may prefer to have their feet elevated to mitigate swelling. Conversely, others, especially those prone to allergies, may find it advantageous to have their head elevated, thereby alleviating nocturnal congestion.

• Check the Drainage

For those engaged in vehicle or hammock-based camping, drainage concerns may be of negligible consequence. However, if your abode of choice is a tent or the great outdoors itself, pay heed to the course taken by water in the vicinity of your encampment. Does the terrain slope toward your camping site? In the event of nocturnal rain, the last scenario you would welcome involves vacating your snug sleeping quarters to relocate your tent due to inundation. In situations where you are ensconced on a designated tent platform and rain is anticipated, consider excavating a trench or constructing a channel to divert water away from your tent.

• Consider Door Placement

Regardless of the nature of your shelter, when situated in proximity to fellow campers, deliberate on the orientation of your entranceways. In our personal experiences of tent camping with our offspring, we typically position our tent entrance to face that of our children, facilitating ease of monitoring. During instances when we find ourselves in our campervan at a dispersed camping site amidst fellow campers, we endeavor to position our campervan entrance facing away from their site or utilize a nearby tree for added privacy. This arrangement enables our children to access restroom facilities in the wee hours without undue self-consciousness.

• Use Sun and Shade Wisely

During the shoulder seasons, pay attention to where the sun will rise and try to orient your tent to catch the early morning sunlight and warm you up. In the peak of summer, look for sites with more trees or rocky outcroppings that can provide shade and relief from the scorching sun. 

• Mind Your Location

Especially within established campgrounds, exercise vigilance in identifying high-traffic areas, such as restroom facilities and water sources. The last scenario one would desire entails being subjected to ceaseless nocturnal disruptions arising from the continual ingress and egress of restroom patrons. If your chosen abode is a dispersed camping area, not affiliated with an established campground, adhere to the 200-foot rule.

Establish your campsite at a distance exceeding 200 feet from the water's periphery, be it lakes, ponds, rivers, or the like, to avert ecological harm. Moreover, position your tent at least 200 feet from trails to preclude nocturnal intrusions by wandering hikers. Additionally, it is prudent to situate your tent at a similar distance from areas designated for culinary preparation, toiletry use, and food storage.

• Fun Activities for Kids

Choose a campsite that offers easy access to fun features like rocks, trees, and creeks. Many established campsites have photos or reviews online that can help you find the perfect spot. Alternatively, check the campsite maps for nearby water sources that can add to your camping experience.

• Check for Unhealthy Trees

Exercise scrupulous discernment when evaluating the condition of the trees adjacent to your camping site. We imbibed this lesson during a backpacking sojourn in Yellowstone. As we undertook the arrangement of our tents in a grove of trees during a severe tempest, three of the trees succumbed to the force of the wind, precipitating their descent while we were securing our tent stakes. 

We promptly relocated our encampment away from the ailing trees. For aficionados of hammocks, ensure the presence of robust trees or an alternate reliable support structure from which to suspend your hammock.

• Watch Out for Sharp Objects

Before proceeding with the establishment of your tent, ensure the removal of sharp detritus such as rocks and coniferous cones from the area beneath your tent's footprint. This measure serves to diminish the likelihood of discomfort or puncturing of your sleeping pads. It is incumbent upon you to minimize your ecological footprint and leave no trace to safeguard the natural environment. Whenever feasible, elect to occupy an extant campsite; failing which, establish your campsite on a resilient surface rather than in vulnerable areas. 

Maintain vigilance in tidying up refuse, abstain from vegetative incisions, and exit nature as you encounter it. If you are unfamiliar with the Leave No Trace Seven Principles, we recommend acquainting yourself with them before your forthcoming camping foray.

Essential Camping Gear and Equipment

At Long Weekend, we understand that every camper is unique. That's why we have an amazing selection of gear for different types of campers, whether you prefer a simple camping experience or the luxury of glamping. We've got you covered, especially if you're planning a beach or coastal staycation as your long weekend camping trip.

Camping Must-Haves

• Shelter (Tent)
• Comfortable Pillows
• Cooking Equipment (Camping Stove)
• Tent Accessories (Tent Pegs)
• Cozy Sleeping Gear (Sleeping Bags)
• Restful Sleeping Surface (Sleeping Mat, Air Bed, or Camp Bed)
• Cooking Tools (Cooking Pans and utensils)
• Eating Utensils (Cutlery)
• Water Container (Water Carrier or Jerry Can)
• Camp Seating (Camping Chairs)
• Illumination (Torches and Lanterns)
• Clean-Up Gear (Bin Bags)

 
Optional Additions

• Camp Dining (Camping Table)
• Electrical Connection (Electric Hook-Up)
• Extra Tent Protection (Tent Footprint)
• Covered Tent Entry (Tent Porch)
• Cozy Tent Flooring (Tent Carpet)
• Portable Toilet (Camping Toilet)
• Storage Solutions (Cupboards and Storage)
• Wind Protection (A Windbreak)

Useful Tools and Repair Supplies

• Cleaning Supplies (Brush)
• Handy Pocket Knife (Penknife)
• Sturdy Hammer (Mallet)
• Versatile Fixer (Duct Tape)
• Tent Emergency Kit (Tent Repair Kit)
• Extra Ropes (Extra guyline or string)

 
Camp Kitchen Essentials

• Fuel for Cooking (Gas for stove or charcoal barbecue)
• Beverage Opener (Bottle Opener)
• Fire Starter (Matches / Lighter)
• Cleaning Materials (Wet Wipes or cloths)
• Kitchen Cleanup Gear (Cleaning Equipment)
• Water Boiling (Kettle)
• Dining Utensils (Tableware - Plates, bowls, etc.)
• Can Opener (Tin Opener)

 
Health and Safety Necessities

• Sun Protection (Sun Cream)
• Hand Hygiene (Anti-Bacterial Handwash)
• Bug Defense (Insect Repellent)
• Bathroom Basics (Toilet Roll)
• Personal Medications
• Minor Injury First Aid (A travel First Aid Kit for minor injuries)

Meal Planning and Campfire Cooking

Here, we're going to show you five simple steps to complete all your meal planning and packing lists. It may take about an hour to set up initially, but it saves a lot of time, and you can do these tasks quickly.

• Step 1 - Choose Your Recipes: As mentioned before, it's best to pick uncomplicated camping recipes. Complicated ones will steal time from your relaxation, so choose wisely. Also, plan an easy meal for your arrival day to avoid meal-related stress. We usually save a special meal for later during our trip, not on the first night.
• Step 2 - Create Your Menu: If camping is a one-time thing for you, all you need is a piece of scrap paper to jot down your menu. However, if you camp frequently and want to follow my method, you'll need a spreadsheet tool like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. Create columns for each day and rows for Breakfast, Morning Snack, Lunch, After Snack, Dinner, and Dessert. Make sure you have a main dish and two side dishes. Sides can be as simple as a veggie tray, fruit tray, and/or chips and dips so that people can snack freely.
• Step 3 - Compile Your Ingredients List: After several years of regular camping, we've established our favorite meals. However, I used to keep ingredients in my head and often forgot some, resulting in last-minute grocery runs. We've even had to buy condiments or drinks we forgot to bring.
• Step 4 - Create Your Grocery and Food Packing Lists: I hope your head isn't spinning! You can download the workbook at the bottom of the page to see the instructions. This step is where you save a lot of time. For the grocery list, go back to your menu and copy all the ingredients for each dish onto a blank worksheet page.
• Step 5 - Review Your Food Packing List: You're almost there, so don't mess up now! On the day you travel, double-check your list, especially for items that need refrigeration.

Hiking and Exploring the Great Outdoors while camping

Let's be real—sometimes, even the closest pals can get on each other's nerves during a camping trip. Hiking can be a fantastic addition to those extended weekend getaways, but the main goal of hanging out with your camping buddies is to have a blast, right? Here are our top five tips for organizing the ultimate hiking adventure while on a camping trip to keep the good times rolling.

• Choose a Leader

Decide in advance who will be the leader of the gang. It could be the person who first came up with the idea for the trip or perhaps the super-organized Type A personality. Regardless, the person who steps up should be responsible for the group's logistics, planning, and decision-making. While group input is valuable and encouraged, the leader will have the final say. We're not suggesting a dictator, but having one designated decision-maker can be helpful when the group is stuck in decision-making mode. Here are some things the leader should handle:

• Sorting out the logistics. Consider planning the group trip during quieter times, like spring or fall, or on weekdays if everyone can take time off from work.
• Narrowing down the options and selecting a location. Look for group campsites for larger groups and make sure your group fits within the place's size limits to minimize environmental impact.
• Making reservations and obtaining permits. Some places fill up six months or a year in advance, so it's a good idea to check well ahead of time.

• Preplan Your Meals

Arguably, the most stressful part of any group outing is ensuring everyone has enough to eat. Hanger is a real thing and can test even the strongest friendships. Meal planning for the group should happen well before the trip, and ideally, one or two people can take charge of the food. For the brave soul taking on this role, keep it simple. Plan meals that don't require extensive preparation, and prep as much of the food as possible before the trip.

Easy breakfast options include eggs, bagels, or oatmeal, while lunch can consist of basic PB&Js or deli-style sandwiches. Keep dinner straightforward with meals like burritos, pasta, or stir-fry. If you're a culinary enthusiast, you're welcome to prepare more gourmet dishes but remember not to keep your group waiting after a long day of adventure while you cook a five-star meal. (Pro tip: Chips, salsa, and hummus are excellent snacks to keep a hungry group content.)

• Embrace Relaxation Time

Depending on your group's personalities, it's a good idea to plan for some downtime, especially in the evening. Not every moment of the trip needs to be filled with high-energy activities or ambitious goals. Moments of relaxation offer great opportunities to build connections and revel in the unique atmosphere that comes from lounging around the campsite. Make sure to bring items like decks of cards, plenty of your favorite beverages, travel-sized guitars or ukuleles, and any other camp-friendly entertainment you can think of.

• Be Truthful About Your Skills

If there are different levels of abilities among your group, think about dividing into smaller teams. This way, everyone can have a good time and go at their speed. When your group embarks on a hike, climb, or bike ride, kindly request that everyone in the group be honest and open about their skill levels. One effective approach is to acknowledge these differences and form separate groups each day based on skills or individual goals. In the end, this adds more excitement around the campfire, as each group shares their daily adventures.

• Follow Leave No Trace Principles

Always ensure that your campfire is completely extinguished before leaving. Larger groups inherently have a more significant impact on the environment, including increased damage to vegetation around the camp or on trails, larger fire scars, and social impacts on other visitors. Here are a few Leave No Trace recommendations to help preserve your favorite places, ensuring your group can continue this tradition year after year.

• Store your food in reusable containers. This reduces the amount of waste you bring on your trip and need to carry out.
• Minimize harm to the vegetation at your campsite by selecting sites that can accommodate your group's size. Set up your tents and cooking areas in locations with no live plants.
• Carry out all garbage and food leftovers. It's not advisable to burn them, as it can attract wildlife and introduce harmful chemicals into the environment.
• Campfires are wonderful, but ensure they are fully extinguished before going to sleep or leaving the campsite. Last year, 84% of wildfires were caused by human activities, which means it's our responsibility to prevent them. Pour water on the fire until the ashes are cool to the touch. If it's still smoldering, continue to drench it with water.

Capturing Moments: Tips for Taking Photos While Camping

When you're out exploring nature, it's a smart move to pack lightly. If you enjoy taking pictures, it's a good idea to plan and pack some essential outdoor photography gear. We assure you that you'll need them! But don't worry – even if you don't have fancy professional equipment, you can still capture fantastic camping memories. Keep this in mind, bring along what we suggest, and have fun preserving your experiences with these:

• Portable and Lightweight Tripod: If you plan to take those dreamy long exposure night shots, it's a great idea to bring along your reliable tripod.
• Remote Control for Shutter: This comes in handy, especially if you're traveling solo and want to capture the best camping selfies.
• Camera or Smartphone Lenses for Travel Photography: To ensure that the stunning landscapes fit into your frame, make sure to pack a wide-angle or telephoto lens. All-in-one lenses are like the Swiss Army knife of photography gear.
• Power Bank or Extra Batteries: Can you imagine anything more frustrating than your battery dying just when you find the perfect shot? Avoid that frustration by bringing an extra power source.
• Spare Memory Card: Nature has a way of surprising you, and you never know what you might come across. Spot an amazing tree? Make sure you have enough space to capture it.

Eco-Friendly Long Weekend Camping Practices

From promoting taking care of nature to cutting down on harmful gases, there are plenty of good reasons to use eco-friendly camping methods. By following the suggestions below, you can reduce your impact on the environment when camping during a long weekend.

• Say No to Plastic Products

It might seem easy to grab a pack of bottled water for your camping trip, but consider the harm it does to the environment. According to a study by the Pacific Institute, it takes three times more water to make one plastic water bottle than it holds. What's even worse is that the chemicals used in making these bottles are so harmful that the water inside becomes undrinkable and is wasted. This study also found that it takes a whopping 17 million barrels of oil to produce all the water bottles used in the United States each year.

So, how many bottles is that? A staggering 50 billion every year, which translates to 1,500 water bottles consumed every second in the United States alone. These facts should make us reconsider our use of plastic water bottles. And you should do the same. Swap out those plastic water bottles for reusable ones when you go camping or anywhere else you need water.

• Choose Natural Body Products

When you go camping, you'll bring sunscreen, bug spray, lotions, and maybe even makeup. You've probably thought about how these products affect your skin, but have you considered their impact on the environment? Water-soluble products like sunscreen can contaminate lakes, rivers, and any other bodies of water you come across on your adventures.

To keep it simple, avoid products that dissolve in water, as they can harm aquatic life. Find alternatives that protect you from the sun and bugs without harming the environment. Also, opt for biodegradable toothpaste and soap. It's these little things that, over time and with many people, can harm nature. Non-biodegradable toothpaste and soap take a long time to break down, so use eco-friendly alternatives. And remember, when using soap or toothpaste, stay at least 200 feet away from any water source to keep it clean.

• Reusable Dishes

The idea of tossing your paper plates after dinner instead of washing dishes might seem appealing, especially when you're on vacation. However, the extra effort of cleaning reusable dishes instead of discarding disposable ones goes a long way for the environment. Plus, using the same dishes on multiple camping trips saves you money.

• Pack Out What You Bring In

One of the best ways to protect the environment and keep your camping areas clean is by taking your trash with you. Sort your waste into trash and recycling, and if you want to be eco-friendly, bring a bag for compost.

Whatever you do, don't leave anything behind at your campsite, not even toilet paper or hygiene products. When disposing of human waste, make sure to dig holes 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet away from water sources. The rule "carry in, carry out" is essential for all campers to follow. Unfortunately, some people break this rule and show disrespect for the beauty of nature. Don't be one of them—treat the environment with care and take your trash when you leave.

• Rent or Buy Used Equipment

Do you need to purchase a brand-new tent, or can you make do with a used one or repair your current one? While there's a significant camping gear industry, it's not always eco-friendly. The most environmentally friendly choice for camping is not getting the newest gear but using what's already available. You can find gear in second-hand stores, on Craigslist, or from friends. You'll appreciate not only how eco-friendly this approach is but also how much money it saves. We understand that camping gear can be expensive, and the money you save can be better spent on more trips to enjoy the great outdoors.

• Camp in Designated Areas

While off-road camping may sound adventurous, it often harms the environment. Designated camping spots are chosen for their durability, safety, and minimal impact on the land. Look for areas where your presence will have the least impact on the environment.

Long Weekend Camping Activities with Family and Kids

Let's explore some awesome outdoor activities you can enjoy during your camping trip with your middle school buddies.

• Embark on a Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts are perfect for sharp-eyed kids like you. They're also a fun way to explore your campsite or the nearby woods. Create a list of things to find, or get ideas from our nature scavenger hunt blog. Don't forget to snap a photo of each item as proof!

• Beautiful wildflowers
• A busy bumblebee
• A crawling caterpillar
• Colorful ladybugs
• A unique feather
• A lucky four-leaf clover
• Fluffy dandelions

You can either team up or complete the hunt together or if you're up for some family competition, split into teams and race to find all the items first.

• Become Tree Detectives

Challenge yourselves to identify different trees growing around your campsite, park, or woodland. Pay attention to leaf shapes, bark patterns, flowers, and fruits – they all hold clues.

• Forage for Wild Food

Summertime offers a bounty of tasty forest fruits. Pick ripe blackberries for crumbles and pies or gather crunchy crab apples for jellies and jams. While exploring the woods, keep an eye out for fruits to use in home-cooked treats. Remember to follow our foraging rules for safe and responsible collecting, leaving plenty for the wildlife.

• Engage in Outdoor Games

Ever tried a game of hide and seek in the woods? It's a blast! Trees and shrubs make excellent hiding spots. Just establish some ground rules, like staying within a designated area and being gentle with the flora. The seeker counts to 50 while the others hide, and then the search begins! The last one found becomes the new seeker.

For a woodland twist on 'sardines,' where one person hides, and the others search, find a hiding spot, and squeeze in like hibernating ladybirds, waiting for the last player to find you. If you're camping with another family, "Capture the Flag" is an exciting team game. One player guards the flag (or a sweater if you don't have a flag), while the rest split into two teams and sneak towards the flag, using trees and bushes for cover.

• Share Stories

Looking for a special way to remember your camping adventures? Try making a journey stick. Challenge your friends to find an intriguing stick and wrap some string around it. As you explore your campsite or the nearby woods, collect memorable items and tuck them into the strings. It could be a leaf from a tree you climbed, an empty snail shell from a minibeast hunt, or a petal from a scenic picnic spot. Back at the tent, use these natural items as prompts to tell the story of your adventure from start to finish. Sharing bedtime stories in the wild is also fantastic. Get cozy, read your favorite books by torchlight, or create your tales about the fascinating wildlife around you.

• Keep Track of Necessary Documents

When you're planning a long weekend camping adventure, it's really important to bring along the right paperwork. The requirements might change depending on where you're going and the rules of the campground, but it's a good idea to have these things with you:

• Personal ID: Make sure to carry a valid ID card, your driver's license, or a Canada Visa stamp in your passport. This is so they can check who you are, and if needed, show it to the people in charge of the campground.
• Proof of Reservation: If you booked your spot in advance, it's smart to bring a printed copy of your reservation or an electronic version like an email confirmation. This will make the check-in process faster and guarantee you have a spot to camp.
• Permission for Kids: If you're taking along kids who aren't your own or under your care, it's crucial to have written permission from their parents or legal guardians. This keeps the kids safe and prevents any legal problems.
• Health Insurance Info: While it's not a must, it's a good idea to have your health insurance card or relevant details in case something unexpected happens or you need medical help during your trip.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact info, like phone numbers of close family or friends. This can come in handy if there's an emergency or you need to get in touch with someone quickly.

FAQs

• What's the best time of year for long weekend camping?

When you're thinking about camping during a long weekend, you need to pick the right time. The perfect season for your camping adventure depends on where you are and what you like. Let's go over some important things to consider:

• Spring: Spring is a great time for camping in many places. The weather is usually nice, and the natural world wakes up with flowers and trees starting to bloom. Just keep in mind that it can rain in spring, so be ready for wet conditions.
• Summer: Summer is the most popular time for camping. It's warm, and the days are longer, which is perfect for outdoor fun. But remember, campgrounds can get crowded, so make reservations early.
• Fall: If you prefer cooler temperatures and the beauty of leaves changing colors, fall camping might be your thing. There are fewer crowds, making it a peaceful time to enjoy nature. But nights can get cold, so make sure to pack warmly.
• Winter: For those who like adventure, winter camping can be magical. Camping in the snow is unique and offers beautiful scenery with fewer people around. But, you'll need the right gear and be well-prepared for the cold.

• Are there any safety tips for camping in Bear Country?

Camping in places where bears live means taking extra care to keep yourself and the bears safe. Here are some important safety tips:

• Always store your food and things that smell in bear-resistant containers or use special bear bags. Don't keep food in your tent.
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it. It's not harmful but can scare away a bear if it gets too close.
• When you're hiking or moving around your campsite, make noise to let bears know you're there. Most bears will stay away from humans if they hear them.
• Stay on the trails and avoid surprising bears, especially if they have cubs. Keep a safe distance and never get close to take a picture.
• If you come face-to-face with a bear, stay calm. Back away slowly, don't stare at it, and speak in a calm, strong voice. Don't run.

• How can I keep my camping gear in good condition?

Taking good care of your camping gear is important if you want it to last. Here are some tips:

• After each camping trip, clean your gear thoroughly and let it dry completely before storing it. Dirt and moisture can cause damage.
• Regularly check your equipment for any signs of wear and tear. Fix or replace damaged items so you won't have problems on your next adventure.
• Keep your camping gear in a cool, dry place. Use gear bags or containers to stay organized and protect everything from pests.
• Always follow the instructions from the manufacturer for cleaning and maintaining your gear, like tents and sleeping bags.

• What do I do if I encounter bad weather during my trip?

Weather can be unpredictable, so it's crucial to be ready for bad weather while camping. Here's what to do:

• Check the Weather: Before your trip, check the weather forecast for your camping spot.
• Pack Rain Gear: Always bring waterproof jackets, pants, and covers for your backpack and tent to stay dry in wet conditions.
• Seek Shelter: If severe weather comes, find shelter right away. It could be your tent, a designated camping shelter, or a nearby cabin if there is one.
• Stay Informed: Carry a portable weather radio or a fully charged mobile phone with weather alerts to know about any changes in the weather.

• Can you recommend some eco-friendly camping products?

For those who love nature and want to protect it, here are some camping products that are good for the environment:

• Solar-Powered Chargers: Get solar-powered chargers for your devices. They use the sun's power to keep your gadgets working.
• Reusable Dinnerware: Choose reusable plates, utensils, and cups made from eco-friendly materials like bamboo or stainless steel to reduce plastic waste.
• Biodegradable Soap: Use biodegradable soap for washing dishes and yourself. It breaks down naturally, which is better for the environment.