Camping, although scary for newcomers, can be a very relaxing experience. Especially now with everyday stress surrounding us, camping can prove to be the escape you are looking for. From connecting with nature to aligning with your natural clock, camping has many benefits. But leaving the safe space of one’s home and going off into the uncomfortable wilderness can be difficult, no matter the duration.
Understanding what you may need to make yourself comfortable can help you get into the adventurous spirit. Hopefully, the list that I have compiled will help you prepare better for the trip and also take a bit of the edge of. The great outdoors doesn’t have to be so rigid and uncomfortable!
- The Ideal Tent:
In the wilderness, you will need to make your very own safe haven, and a good tent will do that. A tent can either make or break your camping experience, so invest in a good tent and before you set it up, make sure you have chosen a good place to stay. The tent shouldn’t be so small that you barely fit into it and it shouldn’t be so big that it would create problems for you to set it up. Remember, a tent isn’t just a place you sleep in; it is your temporary home!
- Stock Up on Good Pillows and Blankets:
To make your tent more comfortable and homey, grab a few fluffy pillows and soft blankets to help you feel more relaxed in your tent. Good pillows and blankets can help you if you are feeling anxious, especially if you don’t camp much. A touch of home can help take the edge off. Of course, this works if you are camping right next to your car and you’re not carrying all this stuff for miles!
- Sleeping Bag
Nights in the woods can be chilly, and you will feel much safer in a comfy warm sleeping bag. You will need to search for a sleeping bag that fits your needs and that can provide you with comfort in the wilderness. A good night’s sleep will help you take on a new day with more enthusiasm. And let’s be honest, no one wants to wake up cranky!
- Solar Charger
Just because you are trying to get away from the cosmopolitan daily life and get in touch with nature does not mean you need to cut off from everything. It is better to have your cell phone with you and keep someone informed of your location. Remember to carry a solar charger with you so you don’t run out of batteries in your time of need. Knowing that you can always contact someone back home will help you keep your peace of mind. Solar chargers are usually small and can prove to be useful even if you are not camping.
- Headlamps
Gadgets like these can be really helpful so you don’t need to use your hands while you carry things out of your car and set up your tent in the dark, just remember to get some spare batteries.
- Small Portable Stove:
Just because you are not at home does not mean you cannot have a good meal. A small portable stove can save you from consuming cold canned food all through the trip. You can have a hot cup of coffee in the morning, a steamy delicious meal in the evening, and even provide warmth without the need for a campfire.
- A Good Friend
A journey is as good as the person you make it with. Whether you are new to camping or have been camping for many years, it is always more fun and safer to go on adventures with good company. While hiking along can provide its own benefits, camping with friends is just as enjoyable. A camping trip also proves to be a good bonding experience for you and your friends.
If you live in the UAE, I recommend you visit the following campsites: Fossil Dune (Meleiha), Dibba Camping Area, Wadi Mudaynna Dam, Wadi Shawka, Jabal Jais, Wadi Shaha, Wadi Naqab.
Camping is supposed to be relaxing so before you embark on an adventure of your own, invest some time into researching the area and finding reliable equipment. In the end, the most important thing is having fun.
Note: Do watch out for weather forecasts, camping in Wadis can be very dangerous in rainy weather as flash floods can be expected.