Outdoor Blog
The Complete Guide to Camping Alone
If you’re reading this article, it’s likely that you are the adventurous type. If you’re the adventurous type, then you likely have a bucket list with things that both terrify and thrill you at the same time – things like going on a camping trip alone.
There’s something rustically romantic about roughing it and having a completely unique and individual experience. However, camping alone can also feel wildly overwhelming when you’re used to having others around to help carry gear, set up and take down camp, and enjoy the experience with you.
From having the initial idea, to planning the trip, packing your bag, and the trip itself:
this article will be your complete go-to guide to camping alone.
Keep reading if you’re ready for your next and greatest adventure.
Planning Your Trip
The first step when it comes to taking any trip is to choose where you’re going to go and for how long. For solo camping, you’ll want to choose a hiking trail and a campsite. For your first trip, it’s recommended that you start on a smaller scale and you can choose more advanced hiking trails as you gain experience.
Do your research and look at the reviews online for any place that you’re considering going. If a place has multiple negative reviews, it’s probably best to steer clear of camping alone there. You also want to make sure that the campsite has all of the necessary permits and that it’s safe from any predators, poisonous creatures, or anything else that could be life-threatening.
A few of the safest and most scenic places to camp alone for the first time are: Bartlett Cove Campground (Alaska), Tingles Island & Pope Bay Campgrounds (Maryland), Jumbo Rocks Campground (California), Tuweep Campground (Arizona), Floods Cove Campground (Maine), and Ash Grove Mountain Campground (North Carolina).
Of course, there are many other campgrounds that are great for solo campers, but if it’s your first time – the campgrounds listed above would make for a great first solo camping experience.
Once you’ve chosen where you’re going, make sure that you have the appropriate permits and double check whether or not the campground takes reservations (some operate on a first come, first serve basis). You’ll also want to go ahead and lock in the dates that you’re planning to camp. We recommend checking out the local weather before choosing your travel dates.
Solo Camping Packing List 101
Now that you’ve got your dates locked in and have chosen a campground, it’s time to make sure that you have all of the necessary packing essentials. We’ll break down every item you need to bring from clothes to camping gear to food.
Clothes. If you’re hiking and camping, it’s important to dress in layers. Layers help keep you warm, or can be stripped down to keep you cool.
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- For your base layer, we recommend wearing loose fitting, sweat wicking clothes. Bring at least two sets of clothes for your base layer so you can rotate between days.
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- Your mid-layer should include clothes made of fleece or wool. These fabrics will help keep you insulated and warm.
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- The outermost layer is the layer that will fight back the most against the weather. You want to make sure that you pack something that is waterproof from top to bottom.
Gear. We’ve got you covered from cooking gear to camping gear. It’s also important that, before you leave for your trip, you practice setting everything up. This helps ensure that your equipment is working properly and can boost your confidence for setting up a campsite on your own. Below is a list of everything you’ll need for a safe and successful trip.
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- Emergency List. Having an emergency contact list with important information like your name, emergency contacts, the name and address of your campground, any medical conditions, allergies, and blood type is crucial. Were anything to happen to you on the trail, this list could potentially save your life.
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- Ultra Light Tent or Hammock. It goes without saying that when you’re camping you’ll need somewhere to sleep; however, keep in mind that everything you bring will have to be carried on your back while hiking or exploring. It’s important to bring something light, yet efficient like an ultra light tent or a hammock. If you choose to bring a hammock, make sure that you have something to hang above you that will keep the bugs out.
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- First Aid Kit. It’s important to bring a first aid kit that’s fully stocked with anything you might need if you get hurt in any way on the trail. We recommend that you bring along the following items in your solo camping first aid kit:
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- Butterfly band-aids (these cover more real estate than regular band-aids)
- Sterile gauze pads (non-stick, for larger wounds)
- Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment (to clean and treat cuts)
- Micropore Medical Tape
- Hand sanitizer
- Latex-free gloves
- Pain reliever like Ibuprofen or Aleve
- Upset stomach medicine like antacids and anti-diarrhea tablets
- Allergy medicine
- Eye drops
- Duct tape
- Tweezers, safety pins, small scissors
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- Map. Before leaving for your trip, make sure that you have either a well-drawn map or that you print one out. Most hiking trails won’t have wifi and having a map handy will help keep you from getting lost.
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- Sunscreen. Even if you’re not hiking in the summer heat, UV rays can still penetrate and burn your skin. Nothing hurts worse than carrying a hiking backpack over a sunburn. Pack sunscreen. SPF 30 or 50 is recommended.
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- Bug Spray. Similar to sunscreen, bug spray is both easy to forget and yet wildly important. Not only are bug bites incredibly annoying, but bugs oftentimes carry diseases that can be life threatening to humans. In order to keep yourself healthy, safe, and free from itchy bug bites, be sure to pack bug spray.
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- Rope. Having a rope can be helpful for many reasons. One of the most popular ways to use a rope is for hanging up your food so that it’s out of reach from roaming hungry animals. It’s best to keep your food locked in your car, but if that’s not an option, you can use the rope to hang food high above the ground.
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- Hat & Sunglasses. If you’re hiking at any time while the sun is out, it’s a good idea to bring a hat and sunglasses for your trip.
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- Journal. Bringing a journal is not necessarily a solo camping must-have; however, camping alone can be a great time for letting your thoughts and creativity flow. After your trip, it will also be nice to read back through your journal and see how much you’ve grown as a person by camping alone.
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- Camera. One of the best things about camping is the scenery. If you’re camping alone, by definition, you won’t have anyone to share the scenery with so it’s a good idea to bring along a camera so you can show your friends and family later on.
Pro Tip: Bring a journal, scotch tape, and a polaroid camera and you can scrapbook your trip on the go.
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- Garbage Bags. Garbage bags are great for not only throwing away trash, but also for keeping any wet clothes separate from the rest of your pack.
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- Sharp Knife & Compact Axe. These are useful for cooking and chopping wood for fires.
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- Padded Gloves. Gloves are great in case you need to use an axe to chop some wood.
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- Flashlight, Lantern, & Batteries. Without a big city nearby, it can get quite dark at night, so you want to bring a flashlight and lantern to keep your campsite well lit.
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- Toiletry Kit. You might be camping alone, but you still want to make sure to bring essential toiletries like a toothbrush, body wipes, deodorant, or anything else you need to keep your hygiene in check while you travel and hike.
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- Entertainment. While hiking and exploring are incredibly entertaining, there will still be downtime to fill. Be sure to bring along a book, sketch pad, music playing device, or anything else that will help keep you entertained. Be mindful to keep it light, though.
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- Cooking Gear. We’ll tackle what food to bring below. But first, here’s a full list of cooking gear for your solo camping adventure.
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- Compact Cooking Stove (you can get away without one if you’re really good at starting fires)
- Matches (to start fires)
- 1.5 Liter Pot
- Cleaning Sponge
- Eating Utensils
- Foil (foil is great for cooking directly in the fire or wrapping up leftover food)
- Cleaning Detergent
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- Hiking Backpack. Once you’ve made sure that you’ve got everything ready for packing from this list, you need to be sure that it all fits into your hiking backpack. We recommend that you have a backpack that carries at least 50 litres, but 80 liters is probably the best. After filling your backpack, try it on for size and weight. If it’s too heavy, take out anything you don’t need.
Food Essentials. Packing food that won’t weigh you down, but that will also be nutritious and filling, can be complicated and feel overwhelming. If you stick to our food essentials guide, you’ll be well fed but not overstuffed.
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- Powdered Hot & Cold Drink Mixes. Imagine watching the sunrise one beautiful morning. Now imagine that same sunrise with freshly made instant coffee in your thermos. Bringing along powdered drink mixes can help keep your palette entertained while also keeping you hydrated. Powdered instant coffee, tea, or hot cocoa are great for warming up and waking up. Lemonade or iced tea are great for cooling down midday.
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- Protein Bars & Instant Oatmeal. Depending on how long you are traveling, you could actually get away with only bringing protein bars and instant oatmeal. However, if your trip is any longer than 2-3 days, you’ll need something with a little more sustenance. Protein bars and instant oatmeal are great for breakfast, or snacks because they fill you up well and are quick and easy.
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- Dry Food. Dry food is great for cooking at dinner time. Pack a few things of pasta or rice and let it boil over the fire. Another great food to bring dry is fruit. Dried fruit is great for a little sugar pick-me-up and is easy to carry along for your trip.
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- Salt, Pepper, & Other Seasonings. If you’re planning on cooking anything, bringing a few essential seasonings can help give you a variety of flavors and keep you from getting bored.
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- Canned Food. Bringing along small cans of beans and vegetables is great for healthy snacks or additions to your meals.
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- Water & Water Filter. Arguably the most important food item to bring is water. Staying hydrated is one of the most important things for you to be mindful of when you’re hiking and camping alone. Pack your own water, but also bring a water filter so that you can refill and make sure it’s safe to drink. You can also boil the water down as an alternative to using a filter.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind While Camping Alone
Now that you’re all packed and ready to go on your solo camping adventure, we’ll leave you with a list of pros and cons when it comes to camping alone to help with your decision.
Pros
Camping alone can give you a unique experience with nature that allows you to connect with your surroundings in a deep and meaningful way.
When camping alone, you only have to worry about yourself. That means no arguing over what to eat that night, and you don’t have to worry about other people in your group hiking slower than you, faster than you, or any other concerns.
Hiking and camping alone can also give you a fresh sense of confidence and self-awareness.
Cons
Being alone for an extended amount of time can begin to feel lonely. This is why bringing a journal can be incredibly useful.
While camping and hiking alone is safe, for the most part, if something were to happen to you while you’re alone, waiting for help can potentially take a long time. If you’re seriously injured, this could result in life threatening conditions. Having a loud whistle can help bring attention to the area you’re at.
All in all, camping solo has many benefits and if your heart beats faster at the thought of a little adventure, then camping alone is a great option for you. Always be mindful of your surroundings and be sure o let family members and friends know where you’ll be.
For your first solo camping trip, choose a place relatively close to home and only stay for a few days. After you’ve conquered your first trip, you’ll be ready to go farther away and for longer periods of time.
So, where will you go for your first camping trip alone?
Outdoor Blog
Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season
Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.
Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures
If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.
Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.
What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?
One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.
This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.
Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have
Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.
The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.
Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience
Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.
These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.
Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience
A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.
Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.
Outdoor Blog
Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip
As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.
Choosing Your Adventure
First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.
Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.
Plan a Camping Trip
If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.
What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.
Gear Up for Deer Hunting
For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.
Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.
Map Your Route
Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.
Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.
Prepare Physically and Mentally
The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.
Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.
Pack Smart
The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.
Outdoor Blog
BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024
BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.
At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.
The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.
In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.
BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.
For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.
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