When you think of traveling do you think of staying in a hotel? If so, it may be time to join the world of camping. More and more people are starting to enjoy camping as they travel. Now, you need to understand that camping doesn’t mean the same thing it used to mean. It is no longer just pitching a tent out in the woods. From RV’ing to glamping the camping options have expanded tremendously. These 4 styles of camping might just make you want to get out of your comfort zone:
1. Guided Trips
Do you want the experience, but aren’t sure you want to handle all the details on your own? Then a guided trip is just the fit for you. You will join a group of people and participate in all activities together as you are “guided” through your camping experience. You can find guided trips that range in experience and skill levels. Choose from trips such as rock climbing in Patagonia, roughing it in Alaska, working your way along the Appalachian Trail, or road tripping across the country. These trips can be anything that you want them to be, with camping as your means of accommodations.
You will experience activities with your group and work together to prepare camp and meals. This is a great way to travel if you don’t have a group that wants to go with you. However, there are also private guided trips for if you have a group of your own that wants to go together.
2. Vanning
If a tent isn’t your style you can try vanning. If you are unfamiliar with the term, vanning is simply traveling in a van, also none as Class B RV. The vehicles are transformed into little mini RVs of sort. If you are designing your own the options are unlimited as to the floorplan that you create. Now the idea is catching on and more people are starting to enjoy this mix of basic camping and full out RV’ing.
When vanning remember to get to your stops a little early to get yourself setup. The added convenience of vanning is that there are multiple non-campsite locations that you can stay much easier than in a full size RV. However, always make sure you are not trying to stay on private property.
3. Treehouses
If you are looking for a unique version of “camping” then you need to stay in a treehouse. This can be as simple or luxurious as you want it to be. You could stay in a treehouse that is simply a platform overlooking the surrounding area that includes a bed, or a luxury cabin that provides you with all of the comfort of home, including a kitchen and bathrooms.
Treehouses are quickly becoming a popular trend with over 1,300 to choose from on the aribnb website. There are destinations around the world that will provide you with this unique experience. There are even small resorts that are built around the treehouse experience. TreeHouse Point in Washington is an event center that incorporates treehouses for overnight stays. Imagine getting married elevated among the trees. Not only is it possible, but they will handle the details for you at this location.
4. Off-Grid Treks
If you are ready to get away from it all and experience the true beauty of nature then an off-grid trek should be in your future. The basics for backpacking have come a long way over the years and there are many blogs and online resources to help you figure it out. Off-grid treks require more advanced planning on your part, but can be an incredible one-of-a-kind experience. There are many areas that you will never see if you are camping at a campsite or staying in an RV. With a little work you can bring along all of the necessities and enjoy an overstay trek or head out for longer term.
Before you head out make sure you know where you are going and that you have all the essentials that you need. If you are a days hike away from the nearest store and realize you have forgotten something you need, you will be out of luck. Dehydrated meals have come a long way. There are many options you can buy from sporting goods stores, or you can make your own at home. When just starting out you can even try bringing simple things like oatmeal packets and the tuna that comes in a pouch.
Always check the guidelines and limitations of where you will be hiking. There are many places that will not allow for you to have a fire when you stop for the night. Knowing this is advance is key as it could effect your meals, and not just your warmth and comfort.
Go have an adventure!
The most important thing is to get out and have an adventure. It doesn’t matter if you are backpacking in the mountains for a week or staying in a full size RV with all the comforts of home overnight. There are so many amazing places to checkout around the country and the world.If you limit your travel to 4 star hotels and popular tourist destinations you will be missing out on so many things. If you want to make travel part of your regular routine, an RV might be the best option for you. Anyway you go use today to start planning your next adventure.