view from inside of a tent

Types Of Camping | Embrace The Adventure!

Written by N1 Outdoors on . Posted in Blog, camping

Camping is an enjoyable outdoor activity that has been around since ancient times. Of course, ancient camping was just called “life.”

Now, all joking aside, camping connects us with the outdoors and allows us to disconnect from the stressors of a daily connected life.

old compass and map

Camping doesn’t have to look like might have imagined. Let’s take a look at several types of camping that could lead to your next big adventure!

There are many types of camping, each with unique characteristics and appeal. We’ll take a look at several types of camping, ranging from prefabricated shelters like a cabin or lodge, to “bare-bones” camping. (You can jump straight to the camping style you want more information about by clicking the links below!)

Glamping

night view of glamping house

What is “glamping” you might ask? Well, it’s “glamorous camping,” and it probably looks a lot different than the camping images you have in your mind!

For many years the term “glamping” (or, glamorous camping”), was used as a dig for campers who wanted to enjoy the outdoors without the added hassle of “roughing it.”

Rather than taking the remark as an insult, campers have leaned into the concept, and now families can enjoy the outdoors while enjoying many amenities of home.

glamping yurt

Glamping involves staying in powered campsites with rigid wall structures like yurts or cabins.

While the level of luxury can change, glamping lets campers stay out of the wind, with power for lights and amenities, and sleep on beds instead of sleeping bags on the ground.

Many families who love the outdoor activities without having to worry about setting up a tent and an entire campsite will enjoy glamping as well!

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Car Camping

Car camping is one of the most popular type of camping, and is great for those who want to enjoy nature without having to go too far from the comforts of home.

view from a tent car camping

Car camping is great for those who want to stay close to a restroom and shower facilities, as well as access to electricity. Not to mention there is some comfort in being able to stay in the car if the weather turns rotten.

Car camping involves bringing a vehicle to a designated campsite via a paved or unpaved road, depending on the campground.

After campers have arrived at their designated campsite, the vehicle is unpacked. The campsite is carried to the campground by vehicle, but the tent, cooler, chairs, cooking area, and the like are assembled away from the vehicle itself (unless you have a vehicle rooftop tent).

Most campgrounds that offer car camping have electricity, bathrooms, and running water nearby.

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RV and Van Camping

vw van with rooftop camper

RV or van camping combines the mobility of car camping with even more comforts of home.

Vans and RVs (recreational vehicles) can utilize traditional campgrounds or designated RV parks with additional hookups to accommodate the vehicle’s power needs.

The bathroom convenience of RV camping is particularly appealing for those looking to not walk through a dark campground for a late-night bathroom trip.

rv for camping

Unlike car camping, where sleeping is done outside of the vehicle, RVs and camper vans provide a sleeping area inside the vehicle away from the elements.

While many campers still set up a traditional camp outside of the vehicle, many RVs are equipped with refrigerators, kitchens, and bathrooms.

Dry Camping

An offshoot of RV and van camping is dry camping.

Unlike traditional RV campsites that have hookups for power, water, and even a location to pump your wastewater, dry camping has none of those.

Dry camping is popular for its reduced cost compared to the nightly fees for campsites with power and water hookups.

For full-time RVers, dry camping is a great way to travel at a lower cost.

Overlanding

There is a more rugged form of car camping called Overlanding.

Overlanding involves carrying everything needed for a camping trip in an off-road capable vehicle.

car camping tent

Unlike traditional car campers, “overlanders” find their own paths into the wild and often use their vehicles as sleeping quarters, cook stations, and charging ports.

The thrill for overlanders is the ability to explore new places and get away from crowds that can frequent well-known spots.

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Tent Camping

A departure from camping with a vehicle or solid structure, tent camping involves a bit more “roughing it.”

Within tent camping, levels range from the backyard to the wilderness.

Backyard Camping

While pitching a tent in the backyard doesn’t sound like camping, it’s a great way to conduct a trial run for a more extensive camping experience.

kids backyard camping

Parents will also appreciate backyard camping when they turn a raucous slumber party into an adventure by keeping the kids outside rather than jumping on the bed.

Being able to pack it in is a nice convenience, should the weather turn foul and your rainfly isn’t as weatherproof as you thought.

Not only can you test your gear under prime conditions, but it serves as a great first step to acclimate children to camping.

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Primitive Camping

Primitive camping is the next level up from car camping and is a great way to fully immerse yourself in nature.

With primitive camping, you’ll need to be prepared with your food, shelter, and supplies.

campfire flame

Primitive camping involves leaving all of the amenities of home behind and camping in remote and secluded locations. Without a car’s storage and carrying capacity, campers need to prioritize lightweight, compact items.

If you choose to go to a campground that offers primitive campsites, you’ll need to be sure you reserve and stay in designated sites that are marked on trails in the area.

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The challenge with primitive camping that also makes it the experience so rewarding is that campers must carry in everything needed.

This type of camping is great for those who want to connect with nature and have a unique outdoor experience.

For those looking at a team-building exercise, assigning each member of a camping party to carry specific pieces of gear increases the camp’s ability to have more. So, you could say that in primitive camping, “teamwork makes the dream work.”

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Dispersed Camping (Go “Remote”)

The last type of camping we’ll cover is dispersed camping.

Out of all the styles of camping, dispersed camping is the most remote, challenging, and rugged.

camping vehicle in the starlight

Unlike car camping or primitive camping, dispersed camping is where you go off the grid and venture into the wilderness beyond any designated campsites.

In many areas of designated wilderness, there is a minimum distance that camps must be from the road. Without those minimums, campers would quickly overuse the areas near roadways that are critical for wildlife (and from an adventure standpoint, it’s kind of cheating to have your car just a few yards away!)

camping stars

Dispersed camping requires the most preparation. Unlike camping at assigned campsites where the ground is level and often free of any dangers like flooding, a dispersed camper needs to consider the overall safety of their campsite as well as proximity to resources like water.

This type of camping is great for those who want to experience the ultimate in solitude and remote camping.

Just like with primitive camping, you’ll need to bring your gear, food, and water.

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While fire safety should be practiced with all forms of camping, the lack of premade fire pits means that you, as the camper, must pay extra attention to how and where you build your fire.

For all of the responsibility and effort required in dispersed camping, it is no wonder why few campers attempt it. However, the challenges and rewards of total freedom and isolation are also the reason why campers who complete these trips want to embark on more.

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Final Thoughts On Camping Types

While we all may come from different backgrounds and have different outlooks on life, we can all successfully share in the outdoors.

campfire with sparks

Nature is deeply rooted in our psyche. The desire to put the phone away, hold calls and status updates for a sunrise, and take in the smells of a campfire runs through all of us.

Every type of camping listed above can be broken down into smaller sections for more niche activities. Rather than carrying the campsite on your back, you can use bikes, horses, or even llamas.

Car camping can quickly become boat, canoe or kayak camping.

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No matter which type of camping you choose, from packing the family sedan full of coolers and lawn chairs for a weekend camping or planning a getaway in the wildest edge of the backcountry you can find, you’re sure to have an unforgettable outdoor experience.

So, get out there and start planning your next camping trip! And who knows, we may even see you out there because, as John Muir once said, “The mountains are calling, and I must go.”

man backpacking in the wilderness

Critical to survival | Wilderness Survival Kit Checklist

Whether you want to unwind by going off-grid or just get away from civilization for awhile, you should take a survival kit and there are certain things that should be included in it to ensure safety, comfort, and a better chance of survival. 

You need to ask yourself, what would I do in a survival situation?

Why You Need A Wilderness Survival Kit

Survival kits are not just for folks who love to explore the wild. It’s also a bit of an insurance policy.

Do you have all it takes to survive? For a survival kit to be effective in a life or death situation, it must include certain things. Aside from essentials like shelter and food, there are other items that could sustain you for months if you use them sufficiently.

What you’ll need in your Survival Kit

So, let’s take a look at some things you should consider including in your wilderness survival kit: 

Water And Water Filtration

mountain stream

In a survival scenario, a stream may be a welcome sight, but that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily clean water…

Water is a big deal in terms of survival in the wild. In fact, it’s absolutely critical. You have to assume that in a survival situation, it could be difficult to find clean water in the wilderness. Should you find water and be unable to boil it, you will wish you had a water filter. 

In addition, you should consider buying water disinfectants. When you find water in the wild, there is always the possibility of parasites and bacteria currently living in it. It’s a good idea to have iodine tablets to ensure the water you will be drinking will be safe. 

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A Rifle

Having a rifle with you in the wild promotes a better sense of security, and the effectiveness of a rifle shouldn’t be downplayed.

Almost any survival rifle can put down a medium-sized game, and is not large enough to ruin a small game. In addition, you can bag about 50-100, or even 500 rounds of ammo for your rifle in your survival kit without occupying much space, as a larger caliber would.

Having a rifle with you in the wild increases your security, but getting a larger once comes at the expense of space in your survival kit. 

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Survival Meals

While in the wild, you are not always assured of encountering wild game, should you need food. In this case, having a supply of freeze-dried survival meals always comes in handy to help sustain you.

Freeze-dried meals are available in most stores; however, clean water must rehydrate and make them edible. 

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Shelter And Sleep

man sitting near campfire and tent

The need for shelter in extreme weather conditions makes a tent a must-have survival item.

You should have a tent to sleep in if you’re going to sleeping outdoors and it should be able to fit into your backpack. Understand that an emergency shelter tent may not last long enough in extreme weather conditions, but it will mostly protect you from the rain.

Be sure to do some research and choose the right tent for your adventure.

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These type tents are small-sized, lightweight, and easily foldable, so they can be carried along with you.

Also, there is the Life Tent, which is an emergency tent that you can easily set up with rope to secure a quick, safe spot to seek shelter from the rain and sun. 

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Headlamp

man looking toward the sky with headlamp

A headlamp is a simple, yet extremely important component of any wilderness survival kit, allowing you to keep your hands free for other tasks when light is low.

If you don’t have a headlamp while in the wild, you have overlooked a simple, yet critical component of a survival kit. The headlamp is a must-have item for those who camp or explore in the wild.

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The importance of having a headlamp to illuminate dark and cloudy nights cannot be overstated. A headlamp with an elastic strap, or one that clips to your hat, will allow you to have your hands free to do other tasks that require your attention in a survival situation, such as cooking at night or early morning, or working on a vehicle when light is low.

A headlamp with 550 lumens light is able to light up about 135 meters. 

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Communication Device

During times of survival, if at all possible, it’s a wise decision to keep in contact with other people.

In a survival scenario, a shortwave radio with solar power can be essential in making urgent calls. These radios are an excellent purchase to include in your survival kit and can often be used as a led light, charger, and radio. 

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First Aid Kit

first aid kit for survival kit

A First Aid Kit may be a no-brainer for a survival kit, but it needs to have the right items in it.

While in the wilderness, you absolutely need to be sure you take a first aid kit with you and be knowledgeable about its contents and prepared to use them, if needed.

First aid is a crucial survival kit item that should be available at all times. You should be sure your first aid kit is stocked with essential items, including pressure dressing, to reduce bleeding, should there be an injury that needs attention. 

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Clothing And Footwear

hiking boots

When venturing out into the wilderness, be sure you have the appropriate clothing items in case you find yourself in a survival situation.

As a survivalist, you should ensure you have the right outdoor clothing. Having a comfortable pair of shoes should help you walk faster and easier. Additionally, sunglasses and a hat will help protect your eyes a from the sun.

Also, waterproof boots will help you more easily navigate through rivers and streams while in the wilderness.

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Long sleeves also come in handy in protecting yourself from insects as well as sun. Also, moisture wicking socks will help keep your feet dry. You should also put on gloves to avoid blisters and insects, as well as provide protection from extreme hot and cold weather as well as hot objects. 

And, while some may not consider a watch part of your “clothing,” having a durable one like the military G-Shocks watches is a big-time bonus in a survival situation. They’re built to last, and can withstand the elements. Some even have solar power.

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Survival Knife

In the wild, chances are, you may be required to do some “cutting” chores, so a quality and reliable knife is a must-have item for your survival kit.

You should get yourself a high-quality knife or a multipurpose tool that includes a knife in it. Your survival knife should be capable of skinning wild game, as well as cutting through and sharpening sticks. An excellent survival knife must be sharp and strong to easily cut through these tough materials. 

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Map And Compass

In times of survival, you shouldn’t entirely rely on GPS, because the device you are using may not function properly. So, you should also carry a local map and compass along with you in case you get lost.

Maps and compasses are lightweight items, so they won’t take up much space in your survival kit.

Having a map and compass with you in the wild is a means to an end. Be sure you are familiar with map reading and compass navigation before you set out exploring! 

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Final Thoughts On What You Need In Your Survival Kit

This might seem like a lot of items to be carrying in a survival kit. Of course, it’s not a pleasant thought that you could face a life or death situation while exploring, hiking or camping, But, in terms of your survival in the wild, nothing should be taken for granted.

You should always pack a survival kit with you for your camping adventure. You should also know how to use every item in the kit and be physically and mentally able to use them if needed.

While there are certainly many other items than the ones listed that would be useful in a survival sitution, the ones mentioned above should not be overlooked.

Be safe out there!

vw van with rooftop camper

Car Camping: A Compact Guide To An Exciting Adventure

“Car camping” describes a camping style that allows you to drive your vehicle to your campsite, as opposed to backpacking with all your gear to a non-vehicle-friendly destination.

Many people prefer this type of camping for its convenience, affordability, and complete flexibility. 

Woman traveling by car and having a picnic in the mountains

You can pack your car full of your camping equipment, drive directly to a camping ground or camper-friendly park, and set up your ground tent or rooftop tent while using your vehicle as a storage facility for the duration of your stay.

However, if you’ve never been car tent camping before, it’s difficult to know how to plan for such a trip, especially regarding the best equipment to buy and what you’ll need.

So, if you need a helping hand planning your next car camping adventure, the following information might prove helpful. 

How to Choose a Car Camping Shelter

Where you’ll shelter from the elements is one of the most crucial considerations when you start planning a car camping trip.

If you like the idea of luxury car camping, a rooftop tent from a leading stockist like iKamper might be worth your consideration. 

car camping tent

Rooftop tents can bring a luxury component to car camping. They allow you to free up valuable vehicle space as well!

A rooftop tent keeps you and your possessions elevated off the ground and provides a layer of security that a ground tent generally can’t offer.

In addition, you also free up precious space in your vehicle, since you can store all your bedding and sleeping supplies on the roof rather than in the cabin.

No matter your choice, there are several factors worth factoring into the decision-making process, such as the following: 

Car Camping Tent Size

Tents come in all shapes, sizes, and styles, and not all will suit your needs. Consider how many people will typically form your group, and make your purchase accordingly.

Many of the best rooftop tents have a sleeping capacity of up to four people, which might be more than enough space. 

rooftop tent in snow

When considering the purchase of a rooftop tent, be sure you consider not only how many people will be in your camping party, but also the type of weather you will be camping in.

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Seasons

Most people prefer to camp during the warmer months, but winter camping presents many benefits, such as smaller crowds, fewer bugs, and higher chances of being permitted to light campfires.

Alongside ensuring you have warm clothing to layer, it also might help to consider your camping shelter’s rating for the seasons. 

campfire while car camping

Whether camping in a traditional tent in a rooftop tent, campfires are certainly one of the best parts of a camping trip!

Some shelters are four-season rated for year-round use, while others are better suited to summer and spring conditions. So, be sure to check this information before making your purchase to ensure your comfort at any time of the year. 

Quality

It can be tempting to buy a tent based on its price alone, but a competitive price tag doesn’t always equate to a quality tent. Consider the available features that might contribute to a camping experience that’s memorable for all the right reasons. 

For example, many high-quality rooftop tents come with quilted insulation to reduce condensation, thick poly-cotton canvas to block light, and windows for ventilation.

The more well-made your tent, the more comfortable you might be and the fresher you might wake up for activities like hiking. 

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Benefits of Car Camping

When you see luxury motorhomes pulling up at campgrounds, with the occupants enjoying a comfortable home away from home in nature, you might wonder why you’d choose to go car camping. There can be many desirable benefits associated with this camping style compared to others. 

Woman admiring sunset view while while sitting on chair by camper van at beach

Being away from home doesn’t mean you can’t “camp in luxury.”

Affordability

Even the best traditional or rooftop tent on the market is a mere fraction of the price of a motorhome. So, when you don’t have a large budget, you can revel in the convenience of still being able to go camping, even if you don’t have tens of thousands of dollars to spare. 

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You Don’t Have to Unpack

While hiking or backpacking your way to a camping destination can be rewarding, it can be frustrating having to pack and unpack at each site you visit.

Car camping gives you the freedom to leave all your camping essentials in your car. 

If you have a ground tent, you can keep this within an easy-access part of your vehicle cabin, and if you have a rooftop tent, there’s typically no unpacking required. 

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You Can Carry More

Accessing off-the-beaten path campgrounds can be a rewarding experience for the average hiker, but it can limit how much equipment you take.

Sometimes, you have to choose between comfort and convenience, which might impact your ability to enjoy your experience in earnest.

Car camping allows you to take as much equipment as you can fit in your vehicle, such as sleeping supplies, cooking equipment, and other activities to pass the time. 

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What to Take When Car Camping

vw beetle car camper

Packing for your very first car tent camping experience can be exciting, especially when you’re heading somewhere new. Before you set off, make sure you’ve got the following equipment…

A Form of Shelter

Protection from the elements can be crucial in the great outdoors. Pack a tent that will protect you from wind, rain, UV rays, and wildlife.

Some people prefer the rusticity of ground tents and simple tarps, while others like the comfort and luxury of rooftop tents. 

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Cooking Equipment

sausage and eggs cooking over campfire

You might not be close to any eateries on your camping adventure, so pack equipment you can use to prepare nutritious meals.

A camp stove is essential for beginner and seasoned campers, along with cups, plates, bowls, and cutlery.

Don’t forget the ingredients you’ll need for delicious camp food, like tacos, breakfast sandwiches, campfire nachos, and smores. 

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A Source of Heat

A heat source can be crucial for comfort while camping in colder climes. Check your campsite’s rules on lighting campfires and consider alternative heating sources like camp-friendly heaters, battery-powered blankets, and reusable hand warmers. 

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Bedding

A sleeping bag is essential on any camping trip. Make your purchasing decision based on the elements. For example, a winter-rated sleeping bag can be vital if you’re considering winter camping in the snow to take advantage of ice fishing opportunities.

Extra blankets might also assist with comfort and heat retention. 

It’s also worth considering your sleeping base. A stretcher, foam pad, or air mattress is often necessary for a traditional tent, while rooftop tents typically come with a plush bed pad designed for comfort. 

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Final Thoughts on Car Camping

Car camping can be a fun experience for families, couples, individuals alike (and even pets), especially when you can connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.

When planning your next camping trip, consider the information above to enjoy as many conveniences and comforts as possible.