Words and photos from 
4wd talk
Summer is here, and for many outdoor enthusiasts, it’s time to start thinking about camping!
Camping is a fantastic way to enjoy nature, spend time with friends and family, and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, planning and preparing for a camping trip can be overwhelming, especially if this summer will be your first one camping.
No worries, though – let’s discuss a few things you need to know to get ready for summer camping!
Choose Your Summer Camping Destination
The first step in planning a camping trip is to choose your destination…
Do you want to stay close to home or travel further afield? Do you prefer a more remote location or a campground with amenities like showers and toilets?
There are plenty of online resources available to help you find the perfect spot, such as ReserveAmerica, Recreation.gov, and Hipcamp. Once you’ve chosen your destination, make sure to book your campsite well in advance, if the location offers reservations. Better to plan ahead and reserve your ideal spot!
Of course, some areas don’t allow reservations. In that case, plan your departure time such that you arrive prior to checkout time at the campsite. Some parks offer sites on a first-come, first-served basis, so getting in line early will help you get the best spot.
There are also many areas where reservations aren’t needed, and an early morning spot in a waiting line isn’t needed, either. This is especially true of more remote campgrounds. Still, it doesn’t hurt to load up and head out as early as possible to maximize your time on your summer camping trip.
Gather Your Camping Gear
The next step for summer camping is to gather all the gear you’ll need. The type of gear you’ll need will depend on the type of camping you’re planning to do, but some essentials include:
- Tent: Your tent is your home away from home, so make sure it’s big enough to comfortably fit everyone who will be sleeping in it. Also, consider the weather conditions you’re likely to encounter and choose a tent that’s suitable for those conditions.
- Portable Diesel Heater: When camping in the mountains, temperatures often drop significantly at night. Consider getting a portable diesel heater to stay warm and comfortable throughout your trip.
- Sleeping bags and sleeping pads: These will keep you warm and comfortable during the night. Again, make sure to choose ones that are suitable for the weather conditions.
- Camp stove and fuel: You’ll need a stove to cook your meals and fuel to power it.
- Cooler and ice: If you’re planning to bring perishable food and drinks, you’ll need a cooler and ice to keep them cold.
- Headlamp or flashlight: You’ll need a reliable light source to navigate around the campsite and inside your tent at night.
- First aid kit: Accidents can happen, so it’s important to have a first aid kit on hand.
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be a nuisance, so make sure to pack insect repellent.
Update Gear as Needed for Summer Camping
Before heading out for your summer camping trip, it’s necessary to give your gear a good once-over. The purpose of doing this is twofold: first, to see if any of your gear is damaged, and second, to determine if there is any gear you need to add to your kit.
Here’s a great example of this…
When I got my Turtleback Expedition trailer, it came with two 100Ah AGM batteries. However, I knew that AGMs weren’t going to be the best option for my needs, considering I spend a great deal of time off-grid. I needed a battery that offered a longer lifespan, a greater depth of discharge, and that had a smaller footprint.
So, upon reviewing my current gear, I did some research and decided up upgrade my batteries to Ultimatron 100Ah lithium-ion batteries. I’m glad I did…
These batteries offer a ton of features beyond what I mentioned above. For example, there’s a built-in heater to protect against chilly temperatures, which is helpful given that I do a lot of cold-weather camping. These lithium batteries also come with a five-year manufacturer’s warranty to give you peace of mind.
Another awesome feature is that these batteries have a built-in battery management system. Combined with Bluetooth connectivity and a smartphone app, I’m able to monitor the batteries for charge level, and output, and protect against overcharging, overheating, and overvoltages. Nice! Learn more about these batteries in my video below:
Now, obviously, not everyone goes on summer camping trips with a trailer or RV. But the point remains the same – updating and upgrading your gear from time to time can help you have a more comfortable trip and improve the functionality of your setup.
Pack Smart
When it comes to packing for a camping trip, less is usually more. You don’t want to be weighed down by unnecessary gear, but you also don’t want to forget anything essential. Here are some tips to help you pack smart:
- Make a packing list: Write down everything you’ll need for your camping trip, and cross things off the list as you pack them.
- Pack strategically: Pack the items you’ll need during the day, such as your water bottle, sunscreen, and hat, in an easily accessible place. Pack your sleeping bag and pajamas at the bottom of your backpack or duffel bag.
- Use compression sacks: Compression sacks are great for packing bulky items like sleeping bags and clothing. They’ll help you save space in your backpack or duffel bag.
- Don’t overpack: Remember, you’ll have to carry everything you bring, so don’t overpack. Stick to the essentials and leave unnecessary items at home.
Get a Portable Diesel Heater To Stay Warm While Camping
Planar portable diesel heaters are designed to provide reliable warmth in cold conditions. It’s easy to carry, fuel-efficient, and perfect for camping adventures. Having a Planar portable diesel heater ensures you can enjoy your outdoor experience without worrying about the cold, giving you a cozy and safe environment to rest and recharge.
Final Thoughts on Summer Camping
Summer camping is a great way to connect with nature and make memories with friends and family. It’s also a fantastic option for escaping the reality of the world and decompressing in nature.
The key to a great trip is planning. Sure, planning, organizing, and packing aren’t much fun, but the more diligent you are about the predatory phase, the easier the trip will be and the more fun you’ll have.
So, what are you waiting for?! Start planning your summer camping trips today, get out there, and enjoy the beauty the world has to offer!
