7 Tips for Off Grid Camping
Off grid camping can be a great way to get away from it all and enjoy some quiet.
More and more people are interested in getting away from it and camping. If you’re considering giving it a try, you should know a few things. This blog post will give you an overview of what off-grid camping is and how to do it.
What Is Off-Grid Camping?
Defined simply, off-grid camping or wild camping is camping without hookups to fresh water, electricity, or toilet facilities. When you’re off the grid, you rely entirely on nature and your resources. While this may sound daunting to some, off-grid camping can be a very rewarding experience. Here are a few benefits of ditching the hookups and roughing them for a while.
You Will Be More Connected to Nature
One of the best things about an off grid adventure is that it will force you to connect more with nature. When you don’t have the conveniences of everyday home things, you will have to find other ways to entertain yourself and pass the time. This may mean going for hikes, fishing in the nearby lake, or simply enjoying the sounds of the birds chirping and the leaves rustling in the wind. You will be doing whatever you do, surrounded by Mother Nature, which can be a very rejuvenating and peaceful experience.
You Will Become More Self-Reliant
Another great benefit of off-grid camping is that it will make you more self-reliant. When you’re used to having running water and electricity at your fingertips, it can be easy to take these things for granted. But when you’re in the wilderness with no hookups, you will have to find other ways to get by. This may mean collecting rainwater for washing or cooking, using solar panels and solar chargers to power your devices, or starting a fire for warmth. Whatever the case may be, you will have to rely on your own resourcefulness to get by, which can be a very empowering feeling.
You Will Unplug from Technology
In today’s day and age, it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and become glued to our electronic devices. But when you go off-grid camping, you will have no choice but to unplug from technology and disconnect from the outside world for a while. This can be a refreshing experience, as it will give you a chance to reset and recharge without distractions.
Why Go Off-Grid Camping?
Let’s face it. We are all addicted to our gadgets. Camping is a great opportunity to unplug from the digital world and connect with nature. Here are five reasons why you should consider going off-grid camping.
- Leave work behind: when you go off-grid camping, there is no such thing as checking your work email or getting calls from the office. This is your time to relax and rejuvenate. If you need to, set an away message on your email and let your co-workers know that you will be unreachable for the next few days.
- Connect with nature: One of the best things about off-grid camping is that it forces you to connect with nature. With no phones or laptops, you can finally take the time to appreciate your surroundings. Listen to the sounds of the birds, smell the wildflowers, and take in the fresh air.
- Unplug from social media: We are all guilty of spending too much time on social media. You won’t have any reception, which means no scrolling through your Facebook feed or posting that perfect Instagram picture. This is an excellent opportunity to disconnect from social media and clear your mind
- Meet new people: You will be forced to interact with the people around you. This is a great opportunity to make new friends and bond with old ones. Playing card games or sharing stories around the campfire are just some of the ways you can pass the time and get to know the people who are also camping.
- Simplify your life: When you live life off-the grid, you will quickly realize how much stuff you don’t really need. Life becomes simpler when you only have the essentials. This can be a great way to reset your mind and declutter your life.
Tips for Successful Off Grid Camping
Getting in the great outdoors is a great way to get away from it all and truly unwind in nature. But if you’ve never done it before, the prospect of being without modern conveniences can be a bit daunting. Luckily, with a little preparation, off grid camping can be a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone. Here are seven tips to help you make the most of your next off grid camping trip.
1. Find a Location
When you’re planning your trip, the first thing you need to do is find a location. You’ll want to find a spot away from civilization where you can truly disconnect from the world. There are several ways to find a good location for off grid camping. You can check out websites like wikicamps which list free and low-cost camping locations across Australia. You can also use apps like Campermate or national parks apps that provide similar information.
2.Get the Right Gear
Once you’ve found a location for your next camping trip, the next step is ensuring you have the right gear. This will vary depending on the season and the climate of the area you’re camping in, but there are a few essential items you’ll need regardless of where you’re going. Some of the essential items for off grid camping include
- Camper van or Tent
- Sleeping Bag
- Camp Stove
- First Aid Kit
- Outdoor Lighting
- Drinking Water
- Insect Repellant
- Solar Panels
3.Pack your Food
One of the most important aspects of off grid camping is packing your food correctly. Since you won’t have access to refrigeration or other modern conveniences, it’s important to pack food that will last without spoiling and save space. Non-perishable items like canned goods (baked beans). Dried fruit and nuts are all good options for off grid camping trips. You should also pack plenty of drinking water, as clean water can be hard to come by in remote areas.
4.Set up Camp
Once you’ve arrived at your campsite, it’s time to set up camp. If you’re using a tent, make sure to choose a spot that’s level and free of debris. Once your tent is set up, you can start unpacking your other gear. If you brought a camp stove, set it up according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to keep any flammable materials away from the stove while it’s in use.
5.Explore Your Surroundings
One of the best parts of off grid camping is exploring your surroundings. Once you’ve settled into your campsite, take some time to wander around and see what there is to see. If you’re lucky enough to be in an area with hiking trails, take advantage of them and go for a hike! Even if there aren’t any formal trails nearby, you can still explore by walking around and taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
6.Be Prepared for Weather Changes
Another important thing to remember when camping off the grid is that weather can change rapidly in remote areas. Be sure to pack appropriate clothing for warm and cold weather and rain gear in case of stormy weather. It’s also a good idea to bring along a hot water bottle for warmth.
7.Be Prepared for Emergencies
Even though you’re planning on being off grid, it’s still important to be prepared for emergencies. Make sure you know how to use all of your gear properly and pack any necessary replacement parts, such as extra batteries for your flashlight. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to let someone know where you’re going and when you plan on returning home so that they can call for help if needed.
Why It’s Not For Everyone
For some people, this is a perfect way to relax and enjoy nature. However, off grid camping is not for everyone. Here are some of the reasons why you might want to think twice before planning an off grid camping trip.
You’re Not Prepared for the Roughing It
One of the biggest reasons why people don’t enjoy off grid camping is that they’re not prepared for it. Sleeping on the ground in a tent can be quite a shock when you’re used to creature comforts like a soft bed and a hot shower. Add in the lack of toilet facilities. You’ve got a recipe for disaster. If you’re not prepared to rough it, then off grid camping is probably not for you.
The Weather Isn’t Always Cooperative
Another thing that can ruin a camping trip is bad weather. Your camper van will get very wet and cold if it’s raining or snowing. And if there’s a storm, you could be in for a long, uncomfortable night. Before you go camping, make sure to check the forecast and be prepared for anything Mother Nature might throw your way.
You Could Get Lost
If you’re not careful, getting lost is easy when you’re off the beaten path. Without cell phone service or GPS, finding your way back to civilization can be difficult if you wander too far from your campsite. Before you go camping, make sure you have a good map of the area and know how to use it. A compass is also a good idea, just in case.
