Many people find the idea of incorporating an outdoor camping adventure into their travel plans appealing. Spending a few days out in the wilderness without the distractions of technology or the demands of work is an excellent way to relax and unwind.
What isn’t as appealing is the idea of sleeping in a tent. If you put camping plans on hold because you don’t want to sleep on the hard ground with mosquitoes buzzing in your ears, you’re not alone?
However, camping doesn’t need to be uncomfortable. There are plenty of ways to make your tent comfortable enough that you’ll be able to get a good night’s sleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
The following seven camping hacks will have your tent ready for your next outdoor adventure.
Pick a Good Location
Location matters, even in the world of camping! You don’t want to spend the night with a sharp rock poking into your back.
Pitch your tent in an area that is free from any rocks, branches, or leaves. Make sure that the ground is firm so that the bottom of your tent doesn’t feel soggy or damp.
Also, if you’re staying at a camping facility, you may want to choose a site that is close to a bathroom.
Adjust the Temperature
Tents tend to lock in heat during warm weather and stay cold in cool weather. After a day of exploring, the last thing you want to do is come back to an extremely hot or cold tent.
If you’re camping in hot weather, invest in camping fans. Some models run off of batteries and models that run off of electricity.
If you’re camping in cold weather, a small portable heater can help keep your tent toasty.
Get the right type of sleeping bag
Many assume the type of sleeping bag doesn’t matter. However, there are sleeping bags that are intended for cold weather and sleeping bags that are intended for hot weather.
Insulated down sleeping bags are best for cold weather camping, while lightweight compact sleeping bags are best for hot weather camping. If you’re staying in a rainy area, make sure it is waterproof.
Adding a blanket from home can also help add an additional layer and comfort!
Remember a Light
You probably already have some type of flashlight on your list, which is great for the times where you might need to leave your tent in the middle of the night.
However, flashlights don’t exactly give off a very cozy vibe for if you want a light for the inside of your tent.
If you’re planning on needing a light for long periods of time, invest in some sort of lantern or LED touch lamp.
Use a Sleeping Pad
Sleeping pads are an absolute must-have for people that don’t want to sleep on a cold, hard ground. Make sure to add one to your packing list!
Sleeping pads are usually made of foam or can be inflated. They slip under your sleeping bag to provide a more cushioned sleeping area.
Another great reason to use a sleeping pad is it can help keep moisture from seeping into your bag. Overall, they add an extra layer of protection to help keep you more comfortable.
Keep Food Outside the Tent
While it might be tempting to bring your food inside the tent so that you’re not eating with the bugs, it is best to leave the food outside.
If you eat food in your tent, chances are that you’ll drop some crumbs on your bedding or on the floor. This could encourage bugs and other animals to come into your tent.
Plus, you don’t want to be sleeping with your crumbs!
Follow Your Normal Night Routine
Following your normal night routine can actually help you feel more comfortable while you’re camping. You’ll also wake up feeling more well-rested and ready to tackle the day.
With so much going on during a camping trip, it can be hard to wind down sometimes. Following your normal routine, such as taking a shower, brushing your teeth, and reading a book, can help you feel more organized and relaxed.
Keeping your same routine also ensures that you get enough sleep. Make sure to start your routine at the same time you always do.
Final Thoughts
Getting a good night’s sleep while camping is necessary if you want to wake up feeling well-rested.
Keeping your tent comfortable by adjusting the temperature, making your space cozy with comfortable bedding and lights, and keeping the animals out will help you get the sleep you need.
