America is a vast and beautiful country, and if you’re lucky enough to explore it, you shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to experience its breathtaking scenery. While this can be achieved in lots of different ways, from hiking to horse riding to hang gliding, one of the best is to set up a campsite somewhere and spend a few nights in the great outdoors.
That being said, this is not something we recommend for the uninitiated or unprepared, especially with the colder weather approaching! Rather, there are certain steps you’ll need to take before setting up shop in the nearest national park, including getting your hands on these essentials.
A good-quality tent
While it should go without saying that a tent is an important addition for happy campers, you’d be surprised by how many people decide to wing it and opt to sleep under the stars instead. This is not something we would recommend, as it leaves you unpleasantly exposed to the elements. With rain and wind both prevalent at this time of year, do the sensible thing and invest in a good-quality, medium-sized tent before you set off on your travels. Don’t forget to read lots of reviews before you make your purchase, so you can be certain that your sleeping accommodation is fit for purpose well in advance of actually using it.
A suitably warm sleeping bag
America has some stunning scenery to enjoy, but just because it’s pretty, don’t assume that it will be as harmonious and forgiving as it looks. Instead, do your research before you arrive, to see what sort of overnight temperatures you can expect throughout the duration of your stay. You’ll most likely need a 35-degree sleeping bag as an absolute minimum, but we’d recommend opting for a warmer version if you’re able or else packing a few additional blankets for layering. Both synthetic and down options can be equally good, so look at the individual product reviews when deciding which bag is best.
Weather-appropriate clothing
We understand that when you go camping, clothing is probably the last thing on your mind, but your attire is more than just a fashion statement. You’ll probably want to include everything from a moisture-wicking base layer to suitable boots or shoes on your list, but one particularly important piece at this time of year is rainwear. You should consider a range of windproof, water-repellent jackets to pick and some softshell options, as they provide both external protection and internal warmth, while also being long-lasting, tough, and robust.
Navigational tools
Last but not least, don’t forget to take along navigational tools such as compasses, maps, an altimeter, and a GPS. Not only is it important to know where you are, but it’s a good idea to let other people know where you’ve gotten to as well, especially if you’re not overly experienced. This will allow you to make the most of the beautiful scenery around you without losing your way and should ensure that you stay safe for the duration of your trip.
Isn’t it time you started organizing your own all-American adventure?
