Have you ever gone camping? I know many people who haven’t or who I have needed to convince to go with me on their first trip and many of them didn’t know what to expect. Keep in mind your experience may differ based on the time of year, location, people you go with, and your reasoning for going but this is a general guide to what I find people have the most questions about for a first front-country or car camping trip.
Bugs
There will be bugs. Depending on the time of year there may be many mosquitoes, deer flies, black flies, or horse flies. It doesn’t mean don’t go, it just means be prepared for it. If you wear long sleeves and loose-fitting clothes they have a harder time biting you. You can also bring bug spray, either deet free ones or ones with deet depending on your preference. If the bugs are really bad you can always use a bug net to cover your face, but I have never needed one while front country camping. Another way to deter bugs is by not using scented products so skip heavily scented soaps, deodorants and creams while camping. Aside from the pesky bugs that bite, it’s good to be aware of other bugs that can be found in forests. If there are ticks in the area you are camping it’s a good idea to wear long-sleeve clothes and check yourself for ticks regularly.
Animals
If you go into a forest you are entering the home of other animals so it’s important to be respectful. You need to remember to put all food, garbage, and anything scented in the car or another place where the animals can’t get to it. It’s not safe for animals or you if you leave scented products out. It is also important to clean up right after eating and dispose of dirty dishwater properly. This can also attract animals to the site and to people. If you keep your food out of reach and clean up after yourself animals are very manageable and you may even enjoy seeing some from a distance. You may want to feed certain animals but feeding them will make them more comfortable with people and make them more aggressive so it’s good to avoid feeding all animals.
When going to a new area it’s a good idea to check what animals are in that area so you are prepared and aware of the poisonous ones. Camping in Ontario, rattlesnakes are the only poisonous animal I have seen. It’s important to look up the safety procedures (for you and your pet) and to be able to identify them. I have seen even more snakes that aren’t poisonous.
Weather
The weather can help make or break a camping trip. Being prepared makes all the difference. If you are expecting rain it is important to have a rain jacket, waterproof shoes, tent and tarp or shelter you can cook under. You can make the best of bad weather by playing card games or camping games. It is a different experience but can still be a lot of fun. We have recently tried charades on rainy days and found it to be so fun!
Food
Food can vary based on your plans. Some people decide to do no-cook options or use products that don’t require refrigeration. You can still cook and keep food cool if you prefer though. You just need a fire, camping stove or grill (plus required fuel), and a cooler with ice. Generally, I try to simplify meals when car camping so I don’t need too many ingredients and don’t spend too much time cooking but still have a nutritious and delicious meal. When car camping all food should be stored in a sealed car and out of sight. I really enjoy experimenting with new camp meals and find things taste so much better after spending the day outside.
Dirt
If you are camping there is dirt everywhere and even in the best weather, you will get dirty. If you accept that then your trip will be so much more enjoyable. You can always wash your clothes when you get home but struggling to keep everything really clean is going to take away from being able to appreciate nature.
Dark
Everything gets really dark at night compared to the suburbs or city (unless there is a full moon or you have a really great lantern). Always have flashlights, headlamps, or lanterns so you are able to see at night. Even using some washrooms you need to provide your own light. The good part is you can usually see amazing stars and get a great night’s sleep in the darkness.
Clothing
Bring clothing suited to what you are doing and where you are going. I always recommend bringing a pair of pants for cold nights or to help protect from bugs and a sweater in case things cool off. A rain jacket and durable shoes are always a good idea as well. If you are going camping during colder seasons it’s important to bring appropriate layers. I never bring my favourite everyday clothes as things will get dirty. After most of my trips everything smells like a campfire.
Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy your trip. Yes, camping requires more work than visiting an all-inclusive resort for your vacation but it also allows you to unwind, reprioritize, and appreciate what is around you!
