#SAFESCAPE 101: CAMPING ETIQUETTE TO LIVE BY

Picture this.

You decided to go camping with a few friends to take a break from the city and enjoy the serenity of nature. On the way to the campsite, you can’t help but notice how clean the trail is. “It’s like a dream here,” you thought, appreciating the natural beauty of nature. When you arrive at your campsite, you notice that there’s also a friendly group of campers who just finished setting up their tent from a distance. They’re talking to each other, but not so loud that you overhear what they’re saying. You and your friends also start to settle down. And once you do, half of your group play card games while waiting for the sun to set while the other half prepare dinner. Then, you light a bonfire to keep you warm for the night.

This is the ideal camping scenario one should experience. Unfortunately, it’s not always like this. To make sure that your camping experience is enjoyable for you and the people around you, here are 10 camping etiquette you should follow.

1. Abide by camp protocols.

Honor—and follow—the rules and regulations of the place where you’re camping. It’s important that you familiarize yourself with the protocols before you even arrive at the campsite.

2. Don’t camp too close to other campers.

Choose a spot that won’t block or violate other campers’ personal spaces. Whether you’re car camping or backpacking, make sure that you keep enough distance from other campers. After all, camping is about sharing space with others and enjoying the great outdoors.

3. Stay organized.

Equip yourself with proper camping gear and storage that will allow you to stay organized while camping. Knowing where to find your things at camp can make your trip safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.

4. Practice safe camping.

Check the weather prior to your trip. Bring a first aid kit. Pack enough food and water. Once you’re there, be aware of any risks around your tent. And if you’re planning to make a fire, never leave it unattended.

5. Be nice and helpful, but respect boundaries.

It never hurts to casually say hi to your neighbors and lend other campers a hand if needed. Who knows? You might even meet people who’ll become your life-long friends.

6. Respect wildlife

Camping or not, it goes without saying that you should always respect nature. It doesn’t just start and end with appreciating the beautiful views. Most importantly, it starts within—by being mindful of the impact you have on every place you go to.

7. Keep a reasonable noise level during the day.

While laughing, playing music, or doing other activities while camping is usually not prohibited, every camper should always refrain from producing disruptive noise. If you remain mindful of your behavior, your camp neighbors will also do the same.

8. Observe quiet hours at night and early morning.

Most quiet times start at 10PM and end at 6AM. Whether you’re a night owl or an early riser, you should always obey the quiet hours so other campers will enjoy the serenity that camping offers.

9. Teach kids to be responsible campers.

If you are camping with kids, make sure that you teach them to be courteous and responsible campers by example. Observe proper camping etiquette at all times so the little ones can do the same.

10. Leave no trace.

Or better yet, leave the campsite better than you found it. Practicing ‘Leave No Trace’ ethics is a surefire way to become a camper that everybody loves.

If you’re looking for gear and equipment that will complete your camping SAFEscape, check out The Travel Club stores nationwide or here on this website.