fbpx
Scroll Top

Comfortable Camping

Comfortable camping is possible. No, we’re not talking about glamping (glamorous camping) here. We mean spending time in the great outdoors and sleeping under the stars. If the thought of spending a few days in nature, cooking meals over the fire, and sleeping in a tent sounds less than ideal, don’t worry! It can be enjoyable and comfortable without being complicated. There are many ways to make your summer outdoor experience more pleasant for you and for your body.

Read on and discover simple tips to make your camping trip great!

Packing

  • When packing for your next camping weekend, focus on the big three – food, shelter, and clothing.
  • Keep it simple and pack it light – when you are tent camping, think about bringing it back to the basics. If your trip involves a night or two away from home, only pack what you need. It’s fun to find new and simple ways to do things while you’re camping.
  • When it comes to packing clothes for camping, the rule is to keep it dry and keep it warm. Layers are always a good option. You can be comfortable at night when the temperature drops and cool during the day when the sun is out.
  • Make a list. This is the key element to stress-free packing. Start your list as you plan your trip, modifying it as you go until you know exactly what you need to bring. As you gain experience, you’ll customize your list to fit your family and you’ll avoid forgetting anything.
  • If luggage is involved in your packing plans, check out these spinal health on-the-go tips.

Cooking

  • Getting a good cooler is key! There are great quality coolers out there that will hold ice for days. This way you can pack the food that you actually want and keep it away from forest creatures.
  • A neat trick for hot weather is to freeze a bunch of water bottles and keep them in your cooler. They will keep your food cold and keep you hydrated once they melt.
  • A portable fire grate will come in handy if you want to do your cooking over the fire. Plus, it doesn’t take up much space in the car.
  • A camping stove or camping grill is a great addition to your camping setup. Take one along if you have extra space, it will make cooking outside much easier.
  • Remember to bring a good knife, a pair of scissors and a small plastic cutting board. No matter what you’re preparing and eating, a knife and cutting board will be helpful.
  • Again, keep it simple. Don’t over plan your meals. Focus on one-dish meals or foil dinners that you can make in advance.

Sleeping

  • After a long day in the sun or on the trails, you will be looking for a cozy place to rest your head. There are a few key elements to consider to ensure you get a good night’s rest before your next adventure.
  • Pitch your tent in a cozy spot. Make sure it’s flat with as few rocks and stumps as possible. Look for softer ground like grass or pine needles. Your spine will thank you. If there is an incline in the ground, make sure your head is uphill.
  • Bring enough bed cushioning that you need to be comfortable. Add an extra foam pad to your camping bed for extra comfort and support. Test your air mattress at home on a hard surface to make sure it inflates well and stays inflated.
  • Select the best sleeping bag for your campout. Read reviews and check out your options based on the weather conditions that you’ll be sleeping in. A general rule is that you want to choose a sleeping bag rated cooler than the weather you are expecting. Extra warmth means extra comfort. Plus it’s easier to remove layers if you’re too warm.
  • Bring a pillow! Sometimes we think we can leave the pillow at home and sleep on rolled-up clothing for a couple of nights. This can lead to neck pain and headaches, not to mention poor sleep. So don’t forget to put a pillow on your packing list, it’s worth it!

Whether you are camping or cottaging this summer, our team is here to help you and your body enjoy the most out of your adventures! If neck or back pain is preventing you from going on that next trip or weekend away, visit us at our CURAVITA clinic in the Glebe or in the Byward market. For more information or to book an appointment visit us online.