HIKING BASICS
Hammock vs Tent: Which Should You Take on Your Next Trek
When it comes time to go out on a trek or just to have a Campout you have a lot of choices. Perhaps one of the most important is where you will be sleeping. After a long day of trekking or just enjoying the great outdoors, you will want to have somewhere nice and comfortable to lay your head at the end of a long day.
Some minimalists will want to take merely a blanket and sleep on the ground. But as for us think that it is worth the extra weight of anything else is worth the added comfort. However, that does bring up the question, what to bring with you. You could go with a tent, or you might want to spend the night in a hammock. So, which is better, let’s dive into investigating a hammock vs tent.
But if we are going to decide if it is better to take a tent or hammock on your next trip, we’ll need to look at some of their differences. Each has its own strengths that would recommend it, but to be fair, we’ll take a look at areas where they each fall short. We’ll need to consider some areas such as setup, sleeping comfort and weight. We will also need to consider their limitations.
Head to Head
Weight
At first glance you might think that the hammock is going to win this one hands down. After all, a camping hammock with a built-in bug bag only weighs about 30 ounces. A backpacking tent will come in between 80 and 100 ounces.
But once you think about adding in the hanging straps (which weigh about 15 ounces) and a tarp to keep you dry (which will add another 35 ounces). When you add in everything you need for the hammock you end up in the range of the backpacking tent. Of course, you can probably find other options that will weigh more or less.
Size
The next feature that we will want to look at is the size of each. First, let’s consider a hammock. As it is out and set up it is about big enough for one person to lay in. If you are particularly tall you will want to verify the hammock you are looking at will give you enough space to stretch out.
The tarp that you might set up over will end up covering more space, but that doesn’t really add any extra space for you to stretch out in. When you take it all down and stuff it in a stuff bag it won’t be very large at all. They tend to be about the size of a Nalgene bottle.
The other option is our tent. This one has more of a variation in sizes. While a small backpacking tent will offer just a bit more space than your sleeping bag takes up, other tents could mean more space to stretch out or put some other gear in.
Just like we mentioned when discussing hammocks, if you are tall double check how much space you’ll have to sleep. At 6 feet 2 inches I’ve come up across a tent or two that I couldn’t fully stretch out in. A typical backpacking tent will pack down to a size that is comparable to a hammock. If you go with something bigger you will start bumping up the pack down in size as well.
Other Campers
As a note related to size, take a moment to think about who you will be going on a trek with. A hammock is great if you want to sleep by yourself. If you are taking a romantic partner with you, you might feel a bit lonely in your hammock though. This is a situation when a tent might be a better option. Also, consider your four-footed companions.
If you go camping with Fido, you will have to determine if you want to teach them to sleep under the tarp for your hammock or would you feel better with them inside the tent with you. Or perhaps Fido sleeps in the car and so you don’t need to worry, just pick which you want.
Comfort
This area perhaps more than any other that we discuss will be a matter of personal opinion. Let’s start off considering the tent. Some will find that it is more comfortable to sleep in, completely out of habit. If you have spent the most of your camping nights sleeping in a tent, it becomes natural for your mind to go the thought of sleeping in one for your next trip too.
And in truth your tent does offer a sleeping experience closer to that of your bed, you have a rather stable surface that you are sleeping on. However, on cold nights you’ll find that the ground can be quite the heat sink, cooling off anyone who sleeps on it without a few extra layers. Also, there is many a night that the nice spot that you chose to put your tent seems to magically grow some roots and sharp rocks in the middle of the night.
In a hammock on the other hand, you are up in the air. No amount of rocks and roots will work their way to poking your back in the middle of the night (so long as your hammock doesn’t since down to the ground). Some may have trouble drifting off to sleep at nice, again from the habit of viewing a hammock for relaxing more than getting a good night’s sleep.
Depending on what hammock you have and what you have brought with you, you may wake up with some gifts from the trees. Some hammocks have a built-in bug screen, others are just open top. If you have an open top style and don’t put a tarp over you, perhaps since it is shaping up to be a beautiful night, you might find that the trees you have selected will drop leaves, needles, pine cones or nuts on you.
Lastly, some people find sleeping in the classic hammock “banana shape” to not be the way that they want to spend their nights.
Set Up
Realistically, when debating between hammock vs tent this one doesn’t have much of a difference. We’ve all spent those evenings in camp setting up an old fashion tent that just has a pile of identically sized poles and you just have to guess how it goes together, since the instructions crumbled to dust before you were born.
But if you have a more modern tent it is simple to set up. Often times the poles are now color coded down to the seams that they go over. With a few clips and slipping the poles into their holes you will have a tent up in no time flat.
And the hammock is another simple set up. You’ll just need to find some trees located far enough apart (and hopefully not over a massive gorge) and start strapping your hammock up.
Yes, the first time or two that you assemble it, you might have a question to make sure that everything is going correctly. But then again, you should probably be doing a dry run of any new gear before taking it out on the trail to ensure that you know how to use it properly and to care for it correctly.
Storms
So, you’ve gotten your sleeping arrangements all set up and a storm blows up? Which would you rather be in? It would seem that in a storm a tent is still a clear winner. With walls all around you, even if they are thin tent material there is a mental state that makes you feel better.
And yes, I’ve been camping in those windstorms that made my tent lay down and touch my nose while I was in my sleeping bag, but I would still have preferred my tent over a hammock.
While you may have a tarp up over your hammock and it may do a better job than a tent at keeping all the rain off of you (somehow tents always seem to have that one place that rain storms seem to find to let water in). However, when the wind kicks up you are still swinging in a cocoon between two trees.
A gentle breeze and a soft rocking might help you drift off to the sound of the woods, but a true storm can have you swinging to the point that you are wondering if you can get seasick in a hammock.
Finding a Spot
When you start to consider limitations, there is a very clear on that comes up for the hammock. You need to have two good sized trees that are spaced the right distance apart. If you can’t find a pair that is in the right range for your hammock you are out of luck. This means that beach camping in your hammock is pretty much a no go as is if you are planning on spending a night or more above the tree line on your next peak bagging trip.
You will also want to take a look at where you plan on going for your trip. Some areas that may have more than enough trees will ban you from using a hammock as they feel continued rubbing of straps around trees could damage them.
But just because a hammock has its own problems doesn’t necessarily mean that a tent is always a better option. A tent has a fairly set footprint, you will need to find a spot that size that is clear to put your tent down. In our beach example that might not be an issue, but go up a mountain and you’ll find rocks everywhere.
Also, if you are in a dense forest you may be hard pressed to find a place to stretch out your tent that doesn’t have a tree or at least a root that will be in your way. And you will still need to double check where you are headed, as many places want you to only camp in designated sites and if everyone else booked those sites then you have nowhere to set up your tent.
Price
It is almost not worth mentioning this one at all. There are far too many variables. You might be able to go to a big box store and get a great deal on a basic model of either and not have to spend very much at all. You could also go to a high-end camping store and think that you are getting a great price on a tent to find out that you have to pay separately for the ground cloth and the rain fly.
But don’t think the same doesn’t apply to hammocks. You purchase a hammock and even if it has a built-in bug screen you’ll find that you need to get some straps to actually be able to use your new purchase. Then, if you think there might be rain you’ll be looking at buying a tarp separately. Sure, both have package deals to make sure you get everything at once.
At the end of the day, if you get a comparable single person backpacking tent and a similar quality hammock you will end up in the same ballpark price wise.
Consider Your Trip
As you’ve seen when you put them head to head there isn’t a clear winner as to which is better. And as we’ve mentioned a few times above your trip details will come into play more. If you are going on a family trip where you can drive up to campsite, maybe it is worth it to just pack the big tent. You’ll only have one shelter to put up and it will end up being warmer by having a number of people inside instead of just one.
Of course, if you and your buddies are off to hit the trail, perhaps it is better to ensure you have your hammock. Then you aren’t bunking with someone that will roll over in the middle of the night and push you to the side of the tent or someone that snores all night. Also, with your hammock, you don’t have to worry about that friend who decided that, since the packaging of the tent said three men, all three of you can fit inside and sleep comfortably.
Change Your Thinking
The biggest thing that stops most people from even considering a hammock for their next trek is their thought pattern. A tent is the symbol for camping. Countless places use that simple picture to let you know that they have a campground. We see it in the movies and magazine ads.
We have all been taught to equate using a tent with going camping. But sometimes we need to question that conventional wisdom. Sure, sometimes that may end up in you having a terrible experience and realizing why things had been done that way.
But this is one of the cases that you may very well like the hammock route more than the tent way of camping. As hammock camping has become more and more popular of a way to get out and experience nature, people have become more open to trying a hammock for their trek.
All across the internet people are posting that they tried it and found it more comfortable or more relaxing or more fun. There are those that didn’t like it as much as their trusty standby of a tent, but they know and they have tried it.
The other great thing about this debate is that you don’t have to be exclusive. No one is saying that you have to dump tents to go steady with hammocks. This is a time that you can have and enjoy both. Let your sleeping shelter be determined by the season and your destination more than the thought of this is how my parents did it so this is how I will do it too!
Wrapping it all up
There are plenty of debates out there, mac vs pc, crunchy peanut butter vs smooth, iphone or android. And many of them fans will come down hard on their side without ever considering the other side. I have seen news articles writing about how this famous New York person or that said they like Chicago style pizza more. But not all debates have to be this opposing.
As we’ve seen going head to head with hammocks and tents there is no clear winner. A lot of it boils down to where you are headed and what you find most comfortable. Whichever you end up picking if it gets you out in nature, then clearly you are the winner.
If it is one more thing that gets you moving and hiking you will win on a number of different fronts. But now that we have gotten to have our say, now it is up to you. Trying to convince someone to try out a hammock for the first time? Why not share this article so they can see it.
HIKING BASICS
Health Benefits Of Drinking Water: Be Positively Hydrated!
We all know that humans simply cannot live without water. It is essential to our livelihood and helps the body in so many ways that we simply cannot function without it. Even our blood is 92 percent water! Staying properly hydrated allows your body to remove toxins and helps to send vitamins and nutrients, as well as oxygen, through the body to the proper places, keeping you energized. We will discuss all that and more as well as how long to digest water.
Water is helpful when losing weight, as it boosts your body’s metabolism, and it promotes healthy skin. You may feel that you are in a happier mood when you are hydrated, because water is doing its job by working with your body. You probably have a lot of questions, such as how long does water stay in your stomach? That can vary from person to person, but we will discuss more below about water and your body.
Soon, you will know all about water, how to stay hydrated, what causes dehydration and more. Let us first talk about ingesting water.
Ingesting Water
When you drink water, it travels from the mouth to pharynx and then down the esophagus. This takes about a second. Some of that water is absorbed into the stomach, some if it is absorbed into the small intestine. Then the water enters your circulatory system and then flows through the body. Did you know that if you drink 2 liters of water each day, it can turn into upwards of 2,000 ml of urine? The bladder holds up to 16 ounces of urine. For your stomach to digest water, it can take generally 45 minutes to 2 hours. However, if you have not eaten anything, and are drinking water, it can sometimes digest in just a handful of minutes.
On average, a person needs at least 64 ounces of water in their body per day. If you are highly active, you may need more water. Depending on your fitness level, you may need to increase your water intake as well. Ingesting this much water will keep toxins flushing out of the body and will keep you full so you will not want to snack. It boosts your metabolism, keeping you going through the day. The best part? Water has no sugar, no fat, and no calories!
Ways to Stay Hydrated
Besides drinking water and increasing your intake if necessary, you can find many foods also have a lot of water. Stay away from the caffeine, which acts as a diuretic. Many fruits and meats contain a high amount of water.
Some great examples of foods that will keep you hydrated include:
- Hamburger Meat
- Chicken breast (not fried)
- Soups, Broths, and Stews
- Smoothies
- Flavored Water or Sports Drinks like Powerade
- Watermelon
- Grapes
- Real Fruit Juice
- Jell O
There are many things you can do to improve your body’s hydration level.
Making small changes like replacing that soda with some water, can help your body work better and less harder.
Here are some ways to improve your hydration level:
- If you do not like plain water, you can always eat foods that are high in water, such as those mentioned above.. Some foods can contain up to 90 percent water. While you do want to drink water regularly, you can always add lemon for flavor.
- Stay away from drinks that will steal water from your body. These would be the sodas, coffees, and teas because not only are they diuretics, causing you to lose more water when you urinate. If you are already dehydrated or sick, stay away especially from apple juice and prune juice as you will lose even more water in the form of stool.
- To increase your water intake, carry a bottle of water with you wherever you go. Whether it is exercising at the gym, working in your office, or driving your car, keeping water nearby will allow you easy access to hydration.
- If you are flying, you may notice that your mouth feels dry. The air in the cabin dries out your body. Drink water before and during your flight so you do not feel this way. During this time, you should also avoid soda pop and alcohol while you are in the air.
- Stay away from any “water diets” that claim to help you lose weight fast. Drinking too much water can be dangerous. Not only that, but your body can only absorb so much water before it just goes straight to your bladder. You will not burn fat doing a water diet.
- Water is hard to digest when you are eating it with a meal. It also dilutes the digestive acids. If you do want to drink water with your dinner, try drinking sips of room temperature water. Drinking ice water will slow the digestion process.
- As we said before, drinking two glasses of water when you wake up can help jump start your body for the day. It keeps your body in balance and allows your mood to improve. This is definitely a must when it comes to hydration.
- Lay off the carbonated water as it only makes you burp. The gas from this will make you feel full in the stomach, which means you will not drink as much as you would with regular water. If you cannot live without a little fizz in your drink, you can always put some seltzer in your water.
- You can lose weight by drinking more water. It can help to burn calories and can help you feel full between meals. Water will flush the kidneys and release toxins from your body, as well as some fat. If your kidneys are in great shape, the rest of your body will improve.
What Causes Dehydration?
There are many things that can lead to dehydration, namely lack of giving yourself water for your body. If you do not ingest water, you can die within days. Some foods can cause dehydration as well.
Below are 9 foods and drinks that can dehydrate your body.
- White Asparagus: This vegetable has aspartic acid, which affects the kidneys, depleting water from your body. This will, in turn, cause you to be dehydrated.
- Alcohol: Since alcohol is a diuretic, it will make you need to use the restroom more. Thus, you are losing water from your body. Too much alcohol will cause a hangover, leading to a headache, because of lack of water. If you do drink, try to drink water as well to keep yourself from a hangover later.
- Cured Meats: Because of the high amount of protein and salt in cured meats, your body will lose water. It is recommended to drink water along with your cured meats to ensure the salt does not dry up the water within you.
- Coffee: If you drink just one or two cups of coffee, you do not have to worry about it dehydrating you. However, if you drink a lot of coffee, it dehydrates you like alcohol does because coffee is also a diuretic. Plus, the caffeine is thought to speed up the process of dehydration.
- Soy Sauce: We all like to add a little soy sauce to our rice now and then, but it does contain salt, which will soak the water up from your body. In 2013, a girl almost died from drinking a quart of it and it gave her an imbalance of electrolytes, causing dehydration. If you use it a lot, though, you should drink some water along with it.
- Bouillon Cubes: Used for making soup, bouillon cubes contain a very high amount of salt, which aids in dehydrating you. Essentially, when it is used in soup, you are drinking flavored salty water. Even though water is used in the process of making soup, you will still need additional water to stay hydrated. If you are sick, you will want the extra fluids so water can replenish your body.
- Popcorn: High in sodium, popcorn can cause you to feel very thirsty. Many like to drink a soda with their popcorn, especially in the theater. Try to replace that soda with water or flavored water to gain some fresh water for your body.
- Fried Foods: French Fries. Cheese Sticks. Fried Chicken. If it is fried, it is going to dehydrate you. Fried foods and processed foods usually have a lot of salt, which can be over your daily intake amount. Avoid these foods or eat sparingly. Always replenish yourself with some water after eating these foods.
- Sugary Drinks: Many sodas or juices contain a high amount of sugar, which are acidic as well. While they may be tasty, they are sucking water right out of your body. In turn, all of your organs are working harder to process the sugars, and your body has lost water. Cut back on the sugary drinks, by including more water within your daily diet.
What Happens to Your Body without Water?
Dehydration will occur when you do not have enough water in your body. You need to replace the water throughout the day to keep your body functioning properly.
Some signs that you are being dehydrated include:
- Dry mouth
- Feeling tired
- Headache or dizziness
- Muscle cramps
- Dry skin
- Constipation
There are more signs if you happen to be severely dehydrated, such as:
- Irritability
- Sunken eyes
- Fast heartbeat
- Fever
- Little to no urine
- Low blood pressure
There are more signs, but those are the major ones. The major causes of dehydration are: frequent urination, sweating, vomiting, diabetes, and diarrhea.
Nobody is immune to dehydration and it can affect you more, and this is especially true for certain people like:
- The elderly
- Sick people
- Infants
- Diabetics
- Alcoholics
- Those with adrenal gland disorders
- Those with cystic fibrosis
The elderly are more likely to become dehydrated because as a person ages, the thirst mechanism in the body is not as strong. Therefore, they will lose water faster. If an elderly person has dementia, they will experience dehydration and the need to stay on top of their water consumption. Infants and small children are at risk of dehydration because their little bodies go through water faster, so they need to be sure to get water regularly.
While a person can live up to 3 weeks without food, the body can only go 3 days without water. Survival experts, stick by the Rule of Threes: You can live only 3 minutes without oxygen. You have 3 hours to find shelter in a harsh weathered environment. You can live 3 days without water, and you can live 3 weeks without food. There have been cases where people have lived a week without water, but those are rare. Since the body is nearly 70 percent water, you can see how essential it is for living.
Best Time to Drink Water
Believe it or not, there are times in the day that are better for drinking water, as well as a few guidelines that will help your body get all of the water it needs.
So, when is the best time to drink water?
- Drink 2 glasses of water upon waking up. This helps to wake up your internal organs and get them ready for the day.
- Drink 1 glass of water a half hour before any meal as it helps the digestion process.
- If you are taking a bath, drink 1 glass of water to keep your blood pressure down.
- Before going to bed, it is recommended to drink 1 glass of water for heart health. This aids in preventing a heart attack or stroke.
- Another trick is, after drinking the 2 glasses when you wake up, you can brush your teeth and eat about 45 minutes later. From there, eat your breakfast and do not eat again for another 2 hours. This helps water to process through your body more efficiently.
Best Ways to Drink Water
There are three great ways to drink water and keep yourself healthy:
- Drink at a slow pace. Keeping a steady pace when drinking water will keep you more hydrated than if you were to down a whole bottle in just a few moments. This is because your intestines can only take so much water at once. If water moves too fast, you will lose it through urination, instead of it being absorbed into your body.
- Drink water with some lemon! Lemon has many health benefits as you will see below. You will feel more energetic and your body will be able to digest food better. Using a water pitcher that has an infuser will allow you to infuse your water with whatever fruit you want and the fruit will pour into your glass with the water.
- Timing is key for drinking water, as we stated above. Knowing when to drink water will allow you to better absorb it giving you more energy and releasing more toxins. Drinking water is simple if you have some next to you at all times. You can use a tumbler and fill it wherever you need to, at school, at the office, or at home. Drinking as you eat will slow down the digestion process, as some people think.
Add a Little Lemon
Lemon is not only for enhancing your water with taste, but it can do wonders for your body. Here is how:
- Lemon keeps you alert and full of energy because it contains potassium. This helps nerve function and brain function, and it reduces stress.
- Lemon boosts your immune system with Vitamin C. This helps the body heal and helps to break up phlegm if you are sick.
- A little lemon in your water will keep you not only hydrated but will not hold onto fat cells. They also absorb nutrients.
- Since lemon has Vitamin C, your skin will produce more collagen, which keeps wrinkles at bay.
- Lemons have pectin fiber, which keeps your metabolism regulated. This can help you lost weight and curb craving.
- The liver loves lemons because it helps produce enzymes for your body. The liver works better and the bile helps in digestion. It also keeps toxins flowing out of your body by urination. Plus, lemons help bowel movement regulation.
Wrapping it up
Water is our life, truly. We need to take care of our bodies by drinking an appropriate amount each day. This lessens our risks of heart attacks, strokes, and sickness. It keeps your skin beautiful and helps boost your mood. Without water, we cannot survive. Hopefully, you have learned many things about water and can improve your daily regimen. Thanks for reading!
HIKING BASICS
Romantic Camping Ideas: Genius Hacks For Camping Couples To Plan Their A Romantic Outdoor Adventure
Camping is definitely the first thing that crosses someone’s mind when it comes to a perfect Valentine day or any other romantic event, especially if you and your partner love camping and spending time in the wilderness.
Imagine the fun and romance taking the love of your life somewhere far away from the hustle, bustle and busy schedule of city struggles. It would be up to you to turn “the wild environment into the romantic one”.
In this article, we are going to take a look at some really amazing romantic camping ideas. If you are still not sure about romantic camping, then stay tuned because you might end up loving it.
How to Plan Your Romantic Camping Trip
If you don’t want your romantic getaway to turn into a disaster,there are some important things to consider before actually going on a trip.
Pick the perfect spot
It is crucial to do some research beforehand and get yourself familiar with the area. Of course, unless you are planning to go somewhere where you have already been. If not, then make sure to find a place that would suit both of you. Since you are planning a romantic trip, go somewhere where you will have privacy and peace and quiet.
How to find the perfect spot? Do a research on all of the campsites online. By using online maps you can take a look at each detail, route, and path. By doing this you will be able to make sure nothing goes wrong.
Make reservations
This is very important, especially during the peak vacation months. You do not want your camping spot to be reserved by someone else, right? Not only reservations, but you should also use the online info to find out about entrance fees and the price of the activities being performed there.
In this way you won’t be surprised in a bad way.
Camping Gear You Must Not Forget
Let’s take a look at some of the goodies that you should not forget. These goodies would come in handy during your romantic camping.
But make sure to remember that you cannot really bring all of them together, because that depends on the location.
- Since you will be sleeping in the wilderness, a comfy air mattress of high quality is a must. You might even want to go for a two-person sleeping bag so you would make sure that both of you have enough space. However, if you are camping somewhere with freezing temperatures or during the winter, you might want to buy a warmer and a waterproof sleeping bed with good insulation.
- Pillows will spice up the cozy atmosphere and allow you to snuggle.
- Make sure to bring extra blankets if you are camping in the winter or in case it suddenly gets colder. Or imagine what would happen if you get trapped in a rain or storm.
- Take your romantic event in the wilderness to a higher level by hanging string lights around the tent, or even in the bushes and trees around it. You will need a battery powered, light strings or the solar ones.
- Many couples go for candles when they want to achieve romantic mood, but remember that you must bring only the risk-free light. That is why you should consider bringing LED tea lights which can create the same Valentine effect.
- Bring a guitar or some other musical instrument that is easily carried around. You can woo your partner or get wooed. You can also sing some favorite songs together. You will be probably alone, so there won’t be any need to be embarrassed.
- Nobody would go camping without bringing a camping stove, so you can make delicious hot drinks like hot chocolate. It is not very romantic to eat canned food.
- Do not forget to bring cards and games you both love to play together.
- A cooler will keep all food and drinks fresh and cool. It is actually a must with regular camping as well.
- If you are not able to play any musical instrument, then take a portable music player with you. Make a romantic playlist of favorite songs in advance and surprise your partner! Music makes everything better.
Other Things to Consider Before You Go
Besides the camping gear that you must not forget to bring, there are also a couple of other things to consider, such as:
- Clothes: avoid smelly fabrics that quickly absorb sweat. Cotton becomes very stinky and should be avoided while synthetics, wool and Gore-Tex are great choices. Wool is warm while Gore-Tex is waterproof. Polypropylene and polyester can be used as under-layers because they do not get as stinky as cotton.
- Prepare the menu: instead of wondering about the food there, make sure to prepare the full menu before you go. Spice up the camping trip activities and surprise your partner with dishes that she or he adores. If both of you are fond of alcoholic drinks, bring a favorite beverage, but place it in a bag or thermos. Do not forget desserts!
- Do a research on wildlife: you would not want to get surprised by a bear, right? Even though it can be quite exciting to come upon a wild animal, you should know how to behave in its presence and if it is possible, to avoid if it is dangerous. You can even find about which products to bring with you in order to prevent insect bites or which places to avoid so you would not come face to face with a rat, skunk, snake, or mountain lion. While you are taking a break, inspect your body to see if there are ticks, because they must be removed immediately. That means that you should not forget an antiseptic.
Ideas for Romantic Camping Destinations
Here are some wonderful ideas for romantic destinations. Depending on where you live and your budget, you can choose at least one that would suit both you and your partner.
Campfire
In most states and countries, campfires are forbidden due to the risk of forest fires.
That is why you should be aware of the fact that you would be able to go camping only when it is colder. However, what is more romantic than sitting around a warm campfire and looking at the stars? You can also enjoy a nice dinner and create a wonderful atmosphere.
Do a research on sites and locations that allow campfires and purchase the firewood only if you are sure that you can really go. Follow the campfire policy for your own safety and everything will be good.
Beaches
Beaches are another amazing and romantic getaway. You can swim, bathe in the sun, and make a beach fire, play beach games etc. Camping at the beach is different than camping in the woods, so you will need to bring beach-specific supplies. The basics are the same, but you will also need to protect your skin from the sun and bug bites.
Track the tides regularly, stay away from the dunes during the night and stay hydrated.
Hot Springs
Have you ever tried camping near a natural hot spring? Then make sure to try it, because it is relaxing, amazing and utterly romantic! If you manage to find a hot spring, imagine soaking yourself in hot water with your partner under the starry night. You can spice it up with tea-light candles, a portable music player and drinks.
However, make sure not to use glass for your drinks, never use soap and do not leave any litter behind.
Hiking
Hiking can be another great way to spend a romantic day with your partner. Just imagine a nice weekend in the wilderness, and away from the crowds. However, make sure to bring boots of good quality because you will be on foot for hours; developing blisters is never romantic. Your shoes should provide you with ankle support and the socks should be designed for hiking. It would be a good idea to spend your day hikes in light-weight hiking shoes instead of the heavy high-cut boots. Your toes should have enough space to move around otherwise they will swell.
As for the destination, it is all up to you. With a blanket, water, enough food, and a headlamp, you can take your beloved on a romantic hike through the woods or hills. Hiking is not only great for physical health, but also mental health as well.
Paddling
Looking for an unusual romantic getaway? Then what about canoeing, rafting or kayaking? Take your boyfriend or girlfriend on a paddling journey in which both of you will have fun! This is a great activity because it can lead you to an isolated campsite where you can take a break and enjoy the view with your partner. You do not really to buy a boat or canoe, you can simply rent one, but you have to be experienced in peddling it. Do not go paddling if you have never done it before because you can endanger not only yourself but your partner as well!
For this kind of adventure you need drinking water, food, sun protection, waterproof footwear and life-jacket. Make sure to get familiar with the area and its rapids before you go so you can avoid unexpected danger. Also, do not only peddle but take mini breaks to show your partner the area and the landscape. It will be an unforgettable adventure!
Safety
When you have finally chosen a destination, make sure to be aware of possible dangers and give your best to prevent them. It all depends on your experience, and if you are the one planning the romantic getaway, then you are responsible for your partner’s life as well.
Let’s take a look at some safety measures:
- Sunburn can be prevented by wearing hats, sunglasses and applying lots of sunscreen. It does not matter where you are, you can get a sunburn at high elevations during freezing temperatures just as same as at the beach. However, if you do happen to sunburn your skin, apply lots of gel and seek medical attention if the burns turn into blisters.
- Blisters are mostly caused by bad footwear, especially during hiking. Make sure to wear socks of high quality and to keep them dry. If your feet hurt, then make a break and check the blister. Apply a padding if it is not broken; however, if it has already turned into an open wound, then clean it with soap and water and cover it with a hydrogel.
- Sprains are serious injuries that can happen anywhere. People who have sprained their wrists, knees or ankles should rest, then apply ice to the sprain to prevent swelling. After that a bandage should be used and the sprained joins kept elevated above the heart level.
- Make sure to always have a First Aid Kit with you, whenever and wherever you go.
Final Thoughts on This Topic
To sum up, we have covered the most important things regarding romantic camping ideas. We have also mentioned some great destinations that might spark your interest and positively surprise your partner. Depending on your budget and location, you can explore camping areas online by using maps and official camping sites. In that way you will be informed about the all possible fees and taxes that might come along your way.
In order to turn camping into a romantic trip, prepare everything beforehand and make sure to remember your partner’s taste and preference. After that it is up to you to create a romantic location and transform it from the wild one into a truly Valentine setting.
Additionally, do not forget that it is better to be safe than sorry. If you are not experienced when it comes to hiking, paddling or camping in general, do not venture into long and far-away journeys that might endanger both you and your partner. Stick to a place where you can ask for help in case you need it.
HIKING BASICS
Great Outdoor Tips For Couples: Camping For Two!
Camping is definitely the first thing that crosses someone’s mind when it comes to a perfect Valentine day or any other romantic event, especially if you and your partner love camping and spending time in the wilderness.
Imagine the fun and romance taking the love of your life somewhere far away from the hustle, bustle and busy schedule of city struggles. It would be up to you to turn “the wild environment into the romantic one”.
In this article, we are going to take a look at some really amazing romantic camping ideas. If you are still not sure about romantic camping, then stay tuned because you might end up loving it.
How to Plan Your Romantic Camping Trip
If you don’t want your romantic getaway to turn into a disaster,there are some important things to consider before actually going on a trip.
Pick the perfect spot
It is crucial to do some research beforehand and get yourself familiar with the area. Of course, unless you are planning to go somewhere where you have already been. If not, then make sure to find a place that would suit both of you. Since you are planning a romantic trip, go somewhere where you will have privacy and peace and quiet.
How to find the perfect spot? Do a research on all of the campsites online. By using online maps you can take a look at each detail, route, and path. By doing this you will be able to make sure nothing goes wrong.
Make reservations
This is very important, especially during the peak vacation months. You do not want your camping spot to be reserved by someone else, right? Not only reservations, but you should also use the online info to find out about entrance fees and the price of the activities being performed there.
In this way you won’t be surprised in a bad way.
Camping Gear You Must Not Forget
Let’s take a look at some of the goodies that you should not forget. These goodies would come in handy during your romantic camping.
But make sure to remember that you cannot really bring all of them together, because that depends on the location.
- Since you will be sleeping in the wilderness, a comfy air mattress of high quality is a must. You might even want to go for a two-person sleeping bag so you would make sure that both of you have enough space. However, if you are camping somewhere with freezing temperatures or during the winter, you might want to buy a warmer and a waterproof sleeping bed with good insulation.
- Pillows will spice up the cozy atmosphere and allow you to snuggle.
- Make sure to bring extra blankets if you are camping in the winter or in case it suddenly gets colder. Or imagine what would happen if you get trapped in a rain or storm.
- Take your romantic event in the wilderness to a higher level by hanging string lights around the tent, or even in the bushes and trees around it. You will need a battery powered, light strings or the solar ones.
- Many couples go for candles when they want to achieve romantic mood, but remember that you must bring only the risk-free light. That is why you should consider bringing LED tea lights which can create the same Valentine effect.
- Bring a guitar or some other musical instrument that is easily carried around. You can woo your partner or get wooed. You can also sing some favorite songs together. You will be probably alone, so there won’t be any need to be embarrassed.
- Nobody would go camping without bringing a camping stove, so you can make delicious hot drinks like hot chocolate. It is not very romantic to eat canned food.
- Do not forget to bring cards and games you both love to play together.
- A cooler will keep all food and drinks fresh and cool. It is actually a must with regular camping as well.
- If you are not able to play any musical instrument, then take a portable music player with you. Make a romantic playlist of favorite songs in advance and surprise your partner! Music makes everything better.
Other Things to Consider Before You Go
Besides the camping gear that you must not forget to bring, there are also a couple of other things to consider, such as:
- Clothes: avoid smelly fabrics that quickly absorb sweat. Cotton becomes very stinky and should be avoided while synthetics, wool and Gore-Tex are great choices. Wool is warm while Gore-Tex is waterproof. Polypropylene and polyester can be used as under-layers because they do not get as stinky as cotton.
- Prepare the menu: instead of wondering about the food there, make sure to prepare the full menu before you go. Spice up the camping trip activities and surprise your partner with dishes that she or he adores. If both of you are fond of alcoholic drinks, bring a favorite beverage, but place it in a bag or thermos. Do not forget desserts!
- Do a research on wildlife: you would not want to get surprised by a bear, right? Even though it can be quite exciting to come upon a wild animal, you should know how to behave in its presence and if it is possible, to avoid if it is dangerous. You can even find about which products to bring with you in order to prevent insect bites or which places to avoid so you would not come face to face with a rat, skunk, snake, or mountain lion. While you are taking a break, inspect your body to see if there are ticks, because they must be removed immediately. That means that you should not forget an antiseptic.
Ideas for Romantic Camping Destinations
Here are some wonderful ideas for romantic destinations. Depending on where you live and your budget, you can choose at least one that would suit both you and your partner.
Campfire
In most states and countries, campfires are forbidden due to the risk of forest fires.
That is why you should be aware of the fact that you would be able to go camping only when it is colder. However, what is more romantic than sitting around a warm campfire and looking at the stars? You can also enjoy a nice dinner and create a wonderful atmosphere.
Do a research on sites and locations that allow campfires and purchase the firewood only if you are sure that you can really go. Follow the campfire policy for your own safety and everything will be good.
Beaches
Beaches are another amazing and romantic getaway. You can swim, bathe in the sun, and make a beach fire, play beach games etc. Camping at the beach is different than camping in the woods, so you will need to bring beach-specific supplies. The basics are the same, but you will also need to protect your skin from the sun and bug bites.
Track the tides regularly, stay away from the dunes during the night and stay hydrated.
Hot Springs
Have you ever tried camping near a natural hot spring? Then make sure to try it, because it is relaxing, amazing and utterly romantic! If you manage to find a hot spring, imagine soaking yourself in hot water with your partner under the starry night. You can spice it up with tea-light candles, a portable music player and drinks.
However, make sure not to use glass for your drinks, never use soap and do not leave any litter behind.
Hiking
Hiking can be another great way to spend a romantic day with your partner. Just imagine a nice weekend in the wilderness, and away from the crowds. However, make sure to bring boots of good quality because you will be on foot for hours; developing blisters is never romantic. Your shoes should provide you with ankle support and the socks should be designed for hiking. It would be a good idea to spend your day hikes in light-weight hiking shoes instead of the heavy high-cut boots. Your toes should have enough space to move around otherwise they will swell.
As for the destination, it is all up to you. With a blanket, water, enough food, and a headlamp, you can take your beloved on a romantic hike through the woods or hills. Hiking is not only great for physical health, but also mental health as well.
Paddling
Looking for an unusual romantic getaway? Then what about canoeing, rafting or kayaking? Take your boyfriend or girlfriend on a paddling journey in which both of you will have fun! This is a great activity because it can lead you to an isolated campsite where you can take a break and enjoy the view with your partner. You do not really to buy a boat or canoe, you can simply rent one, but you have to be experienced in peddling it. Do not go paddling if you have never done it before because you can endanger not only yourself but your partner as well!
For this kind of adventure you need drinking water, food, sun protection, waterproof footwear and life-jacket. Make sure to get familiar with the area and its rapids before you go so you can avoid unexpected danger. Also, do not only peddle but take mini breaks to show your partner the area and the landscape. It will be an unforgettable adventure!
Safety
When you have finally chosen a destination, make sure to be aware of possible dangers and give your best to prevent them. It all depends on your experience, and if you are the one planning the romantic getaway, then you are responsible for your partner’s life as well.
Let’s take a look at some safety measures:
- Sunburn can be prevented by wearing hats, sunglasses and applying lots of sunscreen. It does not matter where you are, you can get a sunburn at high elevations during freezing temperatures just as same as at the beach. However, if you do happen to sunburn your skin, apply lots of gel and seek medical attention if the burns turn into blisters.
- Blisters are mostly caused by bad footwear, especially during hiking. Make sure to wear socks of high quality and to keep them dry. If your feet hurt, then make a break and check the blister. Apply a padding if it is not broken; however, if it has already turned into an open wound, then clean it with soap and water and cover it with a hydrogel.
- Sprains are serious injuries that can happen anywhere. People who have sprained their wrists, knees or ankles should rest, then apply ice to the sprain to prevent swelling. After that a bandage should be used and the sprained joins kept elevated above the heart level.
- Make sure to always have a First Aid Kit with you, whenever and wherever you go.
Final Thoughts on This Topic
To sum up, we have covered the most important things regarding romantic camping ideas. We have also mentioned some great destinations that might spark your interest and positively surprise your partner. Depending on your budget and location, you can explore camping areas online by using maps and official camping sites. In that way you will be informed about the all possible fees and taxes that might come along your way.
In order to turn camping into a romantic trip, prepare everything beforehand and make sure to remember your partner’s taste and preference. After that it is up to you to create a romantic location and transform it from the wild one into a truly Valentine setting.
Additionally, do not forget that it is better to be safe than sorry. If you are not experienced when it comes to hiking, paddling or camping in general, do not venture into long and far-away journeys that might endanger both you and your partner. Stick to a place where you can ask for help in case you need it.
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