The term "roughing it" to me could quite possibly mean the total opposite to another "outdoorsy" person. I'm definitely not a pop a tent and be done with it kind of girl. In fact, I would have never imagined I would consider camping and actually enjoy it just a couple years ago. I had no idea what I was missing out on! While I am relatively new to the game, I have picked up a ton of good tips and advice as to how to make my camping trips a success. Simple things could mean the world out in the wilderness if you come unprepared.
While I'm sure this list will evolve and change as I continue my camping journey, here is what I think are the essentials when glamping.
1. Pop-up, or preferably a motor home or some sort.
Tents can take a good experience and turn it miserable pretty quick. One word; RAIN! Now, I know there are luxury tent that are large enough to accommodate several people and water proof but, especially if children are in tow, mud, water and outdoor debris can fill your cozy space faster than the rain will put out your fire. Then, sometimes tents leak, air mattress' can deflate, and your five year old's wet socked foot could wind up in your face. Doesn't make for a pleasant nights sleep. Been there, over it. For us, tenting is just not the way to go. A family of five needs a little more leg room. After truly roughing it, and spending money renting campers, we decided it would be a good investment and stress-saver to buy something for ourselves. We happened to stumble upon a pop-up for a great price. (Thanks Mom) Perfect for the upcoming season, after we complete the process of a complete makeover. Little by little it's beginning to feel like our tiny home away from home. I'll be posting updates on that as well!2. Picnic table under a screened in canopy.
It's always nice to be able to sit and have a meal out from under the sun for a little while to cool down, relax, and take a break from the elements. The screen also allows for a (mostly) bug free dining experience. Eat a meal, re-hydrate then back to the fun!
Find this model here, on sale!
3. Privacy tent with a portable, flushing toilet.
OK, I'll admit, I've nature-peed, but sometimes that is not an option and the facilities are a few minute walk away and you have to GO... Glamping is about comfort, and it is not comfortable to have to hold it longer than you should, and sometimes children don't have the will-power. I prefer this 5 gallon kind of commode. not huge, easy to maintain, and tall enough that I don't worry about falling over on it trying to navigate it in the dark. Also noteworthy, a water proof toilet paper holder or a stand that will keep it off of the possibly damp ground. I also appreciate a box of wipes for extra cleanliness.
4. Pie irons.
5. Long range Walkie-Talkies.
When camping as a group, you're bound to find separate activities from time to time. State parks and campgrounds can be big, and cell phone signal is not always accessible. This is nice to have to check in with each other, and who doesn't like saying "over" after every remark. "Over."
These will take you farther than tin cans and string.
6. Comfortable bedding.
We don't really camp in the colder months, so we have a lot of options in the bedding department. I don't care for the bunching and constriction of sleeping bags, I prefer the same amenities as at home, memory foam mattress, same pillow that is on my bed, fitted, flat and comforter.
7. Mini fridge for extended trips.
Coolers can only take you so far. Perishables like meats & dairy need to be kept at a certain temperature to be safe for consumption. Nothing will ruin a day quite like food poisoning! Plus, who wants to limit their meal possibilities?
How cute is this mini? Sam's Club members for $99
How cute is this mini? Sam's Club members for $99
8. Crock Pot
What better way to prepare meals than to pull out an already prepped bag of ingredients, throw it in the crock pot, and go back to a fun filled day of activities. Then return to your site and have a meal waiting. Easy!
Oh yes, breakfast ready for the kids bright and early before we even roll out of our bunks. Find this yummy slow cooker french toast recipe here.
9. Folding tables and collapsible shelving.
One thing that's always lacking on a camping trip for us is space. Having a table or two and shelving that is easily broken down and stores compact but sturdy prove invaluable when setting up shop for more than a day or two away.
I like to have a couple of these. Found at Lowes.
10. Clothing line or drying rack.
Self explanatory, dry towels or clothes for storage or reuse.
Find this and other great PVC pipe DIYs here.
11. Bright string lighting or solar powered path markers and flashlights.
Enjoy the twinkle of the stars while still being able to avoid tripping over tent poles, stumps (OUCH) and other potential toe stubbers. Added bonus, functional decorations for your camper!
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12. Campfire grate and charcoal grill.
Mmm a burger right off a charcoal grill. That is the taste of summer. The campfire grate is also handy for meals made in pans and pots when a propane stove is unavailable. Another great investment is cast iron cookware.
13. Plastic drawers.
Great for organization and functional transportation device that wont just be taking up space. Pack them up at home, tape drawers shut, easily transport, and minimal unpacking and accessibility.
14. The "Out of Milk" app.
I use this app all the time! And not just for camping. I store all my grocery store items, separate lists for projects, and to-do's. A great tool that also saves your lists and the items even after you check them off so you can re-add them later when it's time to shop again. Grab it here.
15. Bug Spray
16. Plastic table cloth.
Plastic table cloths to provide a clean surface that's easy to wipe. Table cloth clips a must, unless you want to chase it all over the camp ground!
17. Collapsible garbage bag holder
18. Wash Basins (one for soapy water, and one for rinsing)
19. Sunscreen and sun burn gel
20. Extension cords
21. Utensil caddy for organization
Keep all those forks, knives, spoons, straws, cups, plates and napkins contained all in one little carrying case.
22. Broom and dust pan.
23. Outdoor rug.
An aide in keeping the outdoors out of your camper. I prefer a reversible porous version for easy cleanup and the dirt or sand will slip right through it,
24. Portable Shower.
Whether you choose a shower bag or this sprayer and pump you just plop in a bucket, its nice to be able to quickly rinse off after a dirty activity.
25. Comfortable folding chairs.
I love lounging around a campfire, beer in hand, reclining on a zero gravity chair while my toes are toasty and I'm facing the beautiful starlit night sky.
26. Bluetooth Speaker.
Always nice to have tunes, and great when you can have DJ authorities when running the party beats from an app like Spotify without your phone being physically tethered to a speaker. A campfire song playlist is a must for the kiddos. Don't forget the charger or extra batteries!
27. Cards, games and glow sticks.
28. Bottle opener/Corkscrew
If pop tops and screw offs aren't your thing.
29. Wood and fire starting logs or whatever you find is the best way to ignite your fire.
30. Of course, towels, clothes and other personal hygiene items that are essential to YOU. No one can write you a cheat sheet list for that.
Quick drying towels and dry fit material clothing save time and discomfort. I bring along a couple laundry bags for the dirty stuff.
I hope this list finds you well! Did I miss anything? What are your glamping essentials?
I hope this list finds you well! Did I miss anything? What are your glamping essentials?
