Features > Family > Are You Cut Out For Camping?
Some people love camping. Other people dislike camping. And a large group has never given this a try. Recent reports show fewer young people are camping. Where do you fit in? If you are unsure of whether or not you are cutout for camping, it is time to take a closer look at yourself as well as what goes into this activity.
Below are three basic things that you must be willing to do if you are going to have a good time on a camping trip:
1. Sleep in a tent
True camping means that you will be sleeping in a tent. While this may sound uncomfortable, there are many ways to get around this. With a high quality sleeping bag and/or an air mattress you can enjoy your time in the tent.
2. Are you willing to make your own food?
When camping there is no eating out, or relying on the local grocery store. Sure, you may bring some food from home but you will have to do all the cooking on your own. Are you up to it? Believe it or not, this can be one of the most rewarding experiences during your time in the wilderness. Simple things like hot dogs, chili and soup never taste better than when warmed over a campfire.
3. Showers
Okay, actually this is something that should be prepared NOT to do. If you are the type of person who has to shower twice per day and be clean at all times, a camping trip will test your mettle. You can find campgrounds such as at many State Parks and RV Parks that have nice bathrooms and hot showers. Some people might say that this isn't really camping. But it may be a way to happily include more family members on an outing.
Remember this: until you plan a camping trip and spend some time in the woods you will never know if this is an activity that you enjoy. So get in the right frame of mind, find a campsite that suits your needs, and go for it!