Many people enjoy camping because it allows them to spend time outdoors. However, bringing all of the conveniences of home with you makes it harder to genuinely enjoy nature. This is where minimalist camping comes in. People’s definitions of minimalist camping vary. Minimalist camping encompasses everything from totally living off the path to a bag containing only the necessities. What it truly comes down to is bringing less. Less things, less weight, and less unnecessary indulgences. Bringing only the essentials for a safe and fun camping vacation. If this seems like fun, we’ll talk about a checklist to help you plan your minimalist camping trip.
How to Become a Minimalist Camper?
First, you need understand what minimalist camping entails and how it appears. It is a style of camping that requires minimal packing. In some ways, it is the reverse of having too much comfort since you can only take what you need. Minimalist campers pack light and only bring what they absolutely need to survive and meet their fundamental requirements.
So, if you want to attempt this form of camping, here are some ideas and methods to help you have a great time with your family while not taking up half of the house.
Minimalist Camping Checklist
- Backpack
Even the most basic camping excursion will require a way to move your goods. Most minimalist campers use a backpack. Especially if you’re hiking to your preferred camping area. Choose a backpack that you can easily carry for the duration of your planned hike. And one large enough to accommodate all of your critical items. Before going camping, take a trial trek in your neighborhood. Few things inspire you to bring less than realizing how tough it is to carry a large backpack.
- Backpacking Tarp or Tent
Some minimalist campers want to sleep under the stars, which may be an enjoyable experience. However, if you want some cover from the elements, a hiking tarp or tent is an excellent choice. There are several ultralight tents and tarps available that are particularly designed to be carried in a backpack.
- Sleeping Bag
A sleeping bag made for a backpack will be small and lightweight, similar to hiking tarps and tents. Perfect for hauling your things. It is also critical to pick a sleeping bag certified for the weather you intend to experience.
- Water
On every camping excursion, you will need water for drinking and potentially cooking. Water is heavy to transport, so for a minimalist camping trip, include a water filter equipment or purifying tablets.
- Food
As a minimalist camper, you may wish to experiment with various methods to live off the path. Fishing, for example, is a wonderful way to get fresh food when camping. However, even the luckiest fisherman may occasionally strike out, and you may want more than you can catch.
There are several nutritious, calorie-dense meal alternatives for your journey. Consider protein bars, quick hot cereals, dehydrated foods, dried fruit, or nuts as easy-to-pack choices.
- multi-tool
A multi-tool that includes a can opener and a knife is an important basic camping accessory. It’s also convenient because most tools may be worn on your belt rather than stored in your rucksack.
- Cooking Supplies
Check out your local outdoor supply store for a dinnerware set with a bowl or plate, cup, and utensils that can fit inside a cook pot or pan. Plan ahead how and what you will be cooking so you bring only the cooking supplies you really need. These items can be cumbersome, so you don’t want to bring anything extra.
- First Aid Kit
Stock your first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, fever reducing medicines, sunscreen, and your Bug Bite Thing to ensure minor injuries or illness don’t ruin your trip.
- Flashlight
In a distant region, your sole source of light may be a flashlight. If your flashlight requires batteries, make sure you have an additional pair. LED flashlights are often lighter and more energy efficient.
- Lighter or Matches
If you intend to build a campfire for heat, light, or cooking, make sure to have at least two lighters and matches in a waterproof case. A handmade firestarter is also useful for ensuring that your match or lighter produces a functional flame. With anything this important, you should have a backup plan.
- Medicine and hygiene products
If you use medicines regularly, pack enough for the entire day. Bring a family medical kit, and consider including some pain relievers in it. Women could bring feminine hygiene items, or just wear period-proof underwear every day to be prepared for any shocks while being minimalist!
Take a toothbrush for each member and one toothpaste that everyone may use. Hair cleaner can also be used as soap. Shampoo bars and toothbrush tablets are less untidy than bottles and tubes, plus they don’t leak in your suitcase! Also, keep a couple of rolls of toilet paper and a hand spade in case you need to dig. You should also carry some sunscreen, but you don’t need to bring all of your bathroom items and cosmetics. we recommend packing a wound-healing cream such as Bepanthen, Bacitracin, Neosporin, or Polysporin.
Essential Clothing for Minimalist Camping
Pack the necessities, such as warm underwear, a couple of pairs of socks, T-shirts, and one or two short and long trousers. Wear waterproof shoes or boots and a waterproof jacket when going to your destination, as well as a hat, rashie, or other sun protection if you plan to camp somewhere hot. You must have basic clean clothing to change into every day but do not bring any stuff that you do not require urgently.
Minimalism is the key to bonding
Minimalist camping is the ideal way to bond with your family and enjoy a stress-free outdoor adventure. Pack only the necessities and plan activities with your loved ones to make your outdoor adventure unforgettable. Leave unneeded items at home that will not protect you outside. If your children are complaining about the trip, that’s fine: it may appear strange or frightening to them at first, but once they’re camping and without their regular distractions, they’ll find something to do.
I am sure that you will have one of your most memorable family excursions, and I hope you learned something from our minimalist camping guide!
