Why You Should Go Camping for Your Vacation This Summer

Trying to figure out what is safe-and possible- to do for your family vacation this summer?

International trips? Not sure it’s the time to go global.

Big city fun? But congregating with the masses isn’t the wisest thing right now.

Cruising? Are you joking???

You need to try camping! Camping is the perfect vacation for this summer. Don’t worry if you’re a camping newbie. Getting out there is easier than you think. Here are three compelling reasons why your family needs to go camping this summer.

Outdoors is the Safest Place to Be

Some restrictions put in place during the Covid-19 pandemic are relaxing. But some things are still in place. Social distancing, frequent hand washing and avoiding crowds will be critical for the next several months, if not years.

But outdoors is the safest place to be! According to a study in China in early April, the risk of contracting Covid-19 outside is dramatically lower than getting it indoors.

According to Tom Frieden, the former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Parks, beaches-as long as they’re not cheek to jowl-cycling, walking, this is good,” he said. “Enjoy nature. It’s good for us, and it has very low risk of spreading the virus.”

With camping, you will mainly be among your family members, and far away from others. It’s the perfect solution for travel in our current climate.

Head out to a state or national park within a few hours’ drive (or as much driving as your kids can handle). Simply wash hands thoroughly after using public restrooms, which I hope you’re ALREADY doing. You can go use restaurant drive-throughs or pack a lunch for your trip to and from the campground.

When you arrive, focus on activities that are away from others. Hike, swim, fish, bike…see the local sights, but maybe skip anything with crowds, like the Visitors Center. Or try to go when the site/building isn’t packed, such as early in the morning. You can cook meals at your campsite and wash hands very well after using restrooms. 

It’s the safest and healthiest way to explore and relax this summer!

Read these tips from the CDC for safe travel during this sensitive time.

One Word: FREEDOM

Another great reason to camp this summer is one powerful word: freedom! We’ve all felt a little cooped up these last few months. If you live in a colder climate, the weather has also kept people inside for longer than usual.

We all want a little room to roam. Especially kids! Drive to the woods or lake and enjoy all that space for yourself. Even if you have campsite neighbors, the sites are usually far enough apart to have your own piece of quiet land. Then use your time to wander trails and splash at the lake, with abandon.

Children particularly benefit from the exercise and freedom of exploring outdoors. They can spend time catching bugs…not video game loot. Kids may whine about being away from Wi-Fi initially, but they will quickly get caught up in a strange, new world. Hearing unknown sounds of nature, observing perplexing animal behaviors and playing in a rushing stream will hold their attention.

In short, your kids will learn about and experience a whole new world of thrilling adventures. Sans electronics.

Those close to these 7 Best Family Vacation Spots in the US can prepare for a fantastic trip to some of the most memorable places in the U.S.!

Camping is Very Affordable

Another essential benefit of camping is that it’s very affordable. Even if you have no gear at home, you can buy what you need for the cost of a hotel night or two. Better yet, ask a family or friend if you can use their tent, camp stove or helpful necessity.

Tents can be purchased for a family for less than $100. If it’s your first time, skip the pricey extras and focus on the essentials: yummy food and things that will help you get a good night’s sleep. Purchase a quality blowup mattress (if you don’t already have one) and fan/heater if it will be very hot or cold where you’re camping.

If you can sleep and eat well, you’ll have a great time camping.

Other items are probably things you already own: sleeping bags/bedding, flashlights and a big cooler. Bring disposable tableware and cutlery, and long-handled tongs and a spatula to help with cooking on the grill (most tent sites have permanent grills). Review this list of essential and helpful (if you can swing it) items to bring on your camping trip.

You can honestly bring a handful of things that will get you through a few nights camping experience with little stress and money spent. Then try going again in a few weeks, which will be easier because you know what to expect, and understand what you really need to make your family comfortable.

Vacations in summer 2020 need to adjust to current health and safety standards. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time with your kids! Give your family the chance to relax, escape virus worries and experience the freedom of exploring the great outdoors.

It’s a vast, fascinating world out there. Pack up your stuff and give your family a trip they are sure to remember.

Where’s your favorite place to camp? I grew up camping beaches in Florida. That was pretty amazing!