Travelheart A Blog for those who love to travel
Is there a better place in the world to go camping than the U.S.A? With every landscape imaginable and so many things to see and do, it’s hard to think of somewhere that beats America. But, like all things in life, it’s best not to turn up and hope for the best. To keep your camping trip on track, and you and your companions safe, you’ll need a solid plan in place. Here’s everything you need to know.
Pick some activities
While camping is a great focus in itself, planning some activities along the way will only improve your trip. America is perfect for almost anything you can think of, from fishing and hunting through to activity holidays. Write down all the things you want to experience and use this to plot your route. Also, don’t forget to carry the equipment you require for these activities. If you have a hunting gun at home, carry that; and if you don’t, you can try to procure one from a gun giveaway (a good way to cut costs) or from an online seller. The same can be applied to fishing equipment as well. Remember, it is important to be well-prepared if you want a hassle-free camping trip.
Route planning
America is a big old country – but it doesn’t always look it when you consult a map. Make sure you are aware of the scale before you start booking campsites, as the distances between towns and cities can be enormous. Find out about service stations along the way, too. You never know when you might run out of gas, or develop a problem, so plan your route the safest way possible.
Book your campsites
Always book your campsites before you go. There is nothing worse than driving for a whole day, only to be told there’s no room for your pitch. You can book a state campsite online, or find a private site and contact them to reserve a spot.
Be prepared for all weather
If you are planning on crossing different time zones, you can expect to meet lots of different weather conditions, too. It’s always best to have a backup plan if there is too much rain or wind to pitch a tent. Think about hiring or buying an RV with bunks so that you can keep dry whenever you need to. Plus, a large vehicle like this will allow you to bring a lot more camping stuff with you.
Make a checklist
Always make a list of items you need, and go through it before you leave. Think about camping chairs, sunscreen, spare clothes and first aid kits. You’ll also need some entertainment – books and board games are ideal, and you might want to consider bringing an iPad for the kids.
Make a meal list
When you are camping, it’s best to stick to the basics when you are cooking meals. So, make a food planner and buy everything you need to get by. There will be plenty of diners and restaurants to visit on the way, of course. But, if you want to save a little cash, a meal plan is going to help. Plus, nothing beats creating a delicious meal on a BBQ or open camping fire!
Safety issues
Camping in the States is a safe activity, in general. But, you can never be too careful. The most likely crime you might encounter is a car jacking or a robbery from your car. So, always stay aware of your surroundings and plan your route to avoid any crime hotspots. The chances of anything happening are slim, but you never know.
Have a great trip – and let us know how you get on!
