The Earth remains a very wild place. Despite urbanization, the blue marble is packed full of plants and animals that capture the imagination, providing inspiration to creatives the world over – and inspiring Camping vacations. In the USA alone, 77 million families owned at least one camper in 2017, putting in clear focus the popularity of the vacation. It’s little wonder – according to the World Bank, over 55% of the world’s population live in urban areas, meaning that even as the population increases, a lot of the wilderness lies untouched. For many, finding nature will be the ultimate escapism from the city.
For the beginner or experienced camper, there are some camping essentials before embarking on any trip. With those in hand, it’s a matter of choice. The market is competitive, and as a result, companies all over the world have popped up with unique experiences to appeal to any traveler.
Historical snowy adventures
The Alps of Central Europe are an epic landscape spanning 8 countries. They’ve been a challenge to traverse, although, famously, Carthaginian general Hannibal scaled the Alps with elephants. These days, it offers a wonderful camping trip; hardy adventurers can follow the Carthaginian trail through it. Be warned that such adventures require a significant amount of preparation.
Your day to day will require adaptive clothing. Fear not, as the days of outdoors outfits being the opposite of trendy are long gone, with most major manufacturers giving a strong nod to fashion. The nights, of course, get bitterly cold, and despite the effectiveness of igloo packing methods, a proper tent is crucial. Comfort will help you to enjoy the next day and be rested for the walk ahead, so finding the best air mattress for camping is important, alongside appropriate sleeping equipment.
Camping among the trees
Not for the faint-hearted or those suffering from vertigo, tree camping has become more popular in recent years – and nowhere more so than close to home. In Oregon, treehouse camping has sprung up among the remarkably diverse Oregon arboriculture. Whilst not so far from home or in an exotic location, the idea of sleeping among the trees and high above the ground will give a unique experience when waking up and looking at the vista outside of your tent. There are also glamping hotspots set up in the same state, replete with clever designer clothes to help enjoy the history and culture of the area.
Camping with nature’s citizens
Part of the allure of nature is the creatures that call it home. Camping is offering a way to get closer, in an ethical manner, and build an understanding of the world around you. In Uganda, the state authorities in collaboration with NGOs offer campers the opportunity to get as close to their endangered gorilla populations as possible, whilst donating funds from the trips to conservation efforts. Camping in this manner can be done globally – finding a spot with good surroundings and smartly searching for animals to ensure your own safety and enjoyment is a matter of your own initiative.
Camping is a great way to get out and about – and on the cheap. Whether you want to invest a load of cash in glamping, or just want to get back to nature with yourself and your equipment, the opportunities are there. Why not consider it for your next vacation?
