Man has always had a deep love for nature. This hardwired passion only becomes more intense due to stressful urban living. The solution? Many people resort to the lap of nature through popular camping sites.Â
The American Canoe Association found that 2023 outdoor activity participation was good. Around 80% of all outdoor activities saw an uptick, especially fishing and camping. In truth, even the most fun venture can become mundane after a certain time and frequency.Â
This article will help revive your love for the outdoors. Here, we will discuss four unique ways to spice up your camping routine.Â
Explore a Variety of Camping TypesÂ
The best part about camping is that it is a multifaceted activity. This means you do not have to stick with a typical kind. What do we mean by that? Here’s a list of possible camping types to explore. Strike off the ones you haven’t yet tried for your next camping trip.Â
- RV Camping: You can break away from the conventional tent setup and move toward RV camping. Rent an RV and zip along scenic routes in search of refreshingly new destinations. Your home on wheels will offer an unparalleled level of freedom.Â
- Backpacking: If you’re looking for a highly immersive experience, it’s time to stuff all the goods inside a backpack and explore remote wilderness spots.Â
- Glamping: If sacrificing luxuries and comforts is not on your list, glamping or glamorous camping may be your ideal type. Choose among upscale accommodations across glamping sites that offer all modern amenities as you access nature’s wonders.Â
There’s also a fourth type that focuses solely on the exploration of mystical winter landscapes. Winter camping in a snow shelter amid snow-covered surroundings is truly magical.Â
Think Outside the Box of Basic Camping ActivitiesÂ
If roasting marshmallows around a campfire followed by songs sung to the tune of a ukulele is your idea of camping, it’s time to switch things a bit. This description is often associated with a camping trip. One may even consider themselves to have not really enjoyed the wonders of camping without participating in the said activity.Â
You can do that by all means, but step a little outside the box too. There are a wide variety of engaging activities that can transform your camping experience for the better. Think about some energetic fun in the form of kayaking, paddle boarding, or canoeing.Â
Besides fueling the adrenaline rush, such activities will offer a unique viewpoint of the surrounding landscape. In case you wish to end the day with something more serene, take part in stargazing. This is especially mesmerizing if you’re camping at a spot where celestial bodies are easily visible, and the sky is clear.Â
A third unique activity to include in your camping routine is foraging! You’ll learn a lot about different kinds of edible plants and mushrooms, like the prized morel mushroom. Not only will you gain a deeper appreciation for nature, but you might also uncover some delicious finds!
Just a pro tip: While learning about mushrooms, it’s important to never consume anything unless a knowledgeable expert in your group can confirm it’s safe. There are over 2,000 wild mushroom varieties out there, but luckily, identification is a skill you can develop with some practice. To learn more about foraging and proper mushroom storage, including tips on how to store morel mushrooms, there are many resources available online and through local nature groups. This can be a truly rewarding and enriching experience for any camping trip.
Consider Theme-Based Camping TripsÂ
When it comes to camping, the sky’s the limit in terms of creativity. Just like there are ways to spice up old camping routines, there are possibilities in terms of the entire trip itself. In other words, consider embarking on an exciting adventure based on a theme.Â
For instance – you can decide to have a beach-themed camping trip. For this, the best backdrop would be a tranquil lakeside. You can decorate the spot with colorful beach towels, relaxing deckchairs, and beach balls, among others.Â
Indulge yourself in some fun beach games like volleyball or simply bask in the sun. Carry with yourself delicious beach-inspired snacks like fruit salad, granola bars, sandwich rollups, crisps and dips, etc.Â
As the evening approaches, the ambiance can become more peaceful. You and your camping buddies can light a campfire, roast some marshmallows, and participate in fun storytelling. Another great example of theme-based camping would be medieval adventures. For this, you will have to transform your camping ground into a vibrant medieval village.
Bring along with you some wooden shields and flying banners. Invite everyone to play fun activities like archery, quest for finding hidden treasures, or jousting tournaments. In the evening, the entire area can be lit with lanterns and candles to create an enchanting atmosphere for some Medieval dancing and singing.Â
A pro tip for incorporating this unique twist would be investing in extra luggage carriers. A good choice would be rooftop cargo carriers that are versatile and waterproof. According to RoofPax, the ultimate level of versatility is offered by those carriers that can be used with or without a roof rack.Â
With sufficient hook straps and a TSA-approved lock, there is little you need to worry about. Any additional items, especially the larger ones that may work as props for the theme, can be stored easily. Just keep in mind that carrier features may be different. You can choose based on your needs. For more details about rooftop cargo carrier, click here.Â
Try Camping on an International ScaleÂ
One common way to camp is to decide on a location that rests within your state’s or country’s borders. If that is all that you have experienced during camping trips, perhaps it’s time for a bigger change.Â
Consider earmarking popular camping sites across the world. Business Insider shares some of the hotspots located worldwide. These include Patagonia in Chile, Zakynthos in Greece, and the Simien Mountains in Ethiopia.Â
It may all sound the same because even though the US has exceptional national parks and mountains, the truth is a lot different. International camping has the potential to broaden your horizons to the scope that lies beyond the familiar. Besides newfound knowledge, you will have global camaraderie that may inspire future camping trips.Â
On the other hand, a pro tip would be rediscovering your local area in case you haven’t. We understand that you may believe that you have seen it all, but there are often hidden gems to be discovered. You may end up surprised by the natural beauty waiting at your doorstep.
As we just discussed, camping opens up a world of possibilities provided you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone. Since this article is about moving past the mundane, we’re certain you’re ready to leap. Studies discovered that around 85 million Americans went camping in 2023.Â
The country continues to respond with an emphatic “Yes!” to camping this year. Has your love for this activity been rekindled? If yes, it’s time to take a detour from the well-beaten path and write your unique camping adventure anecdote.Â