8 THINGS TO THINK ABOUT BEFORE GOING WILD CAMPING
Before we get into things to think about before going wild camping, we first need to clarify the difference between wild camping and regular camping. Wild camping is camping in a beauty spot or national park without being surrounded by other people and without formal basic facilities such as a flushing toilet, shower, and electricity.
You might wonder why anyone would wish to do this to themselves. Allow us to explain. Wild camping will give you a sense of adventure and freedom not found in conventional people-filled campsites. Wild camping also allows you to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature in a quiet and serene setting, which can be incredibly therapeutic and refreshing. We dare you to try it, but before you do, here are eight questions you must ask yourself first.
© Craig KoleskyWill you leave it in a better condition than you found it?
This is the most essential principle of wild camping. Why? Because you’re not the only person doing it, and the next person to visit your wild camping spot shouldn’t have to deal with your bits of rubbish. Ensure you bring enough bin liners, use them, and don’t forget to take them away with you. The must-have Bin Liner Holder fits onto a Front Runner table or rack, and it’s the perfect place to put your bin bag and have it always accessible.
© Craig KoleskyCan you be self-sufficient?
You can only rely on yourself and your skills when wild camping. If things go horrendously wrong, you must sort it out yourself, as no one is coming to get you unless you have mobile reception, good medical or vehicle recovery insurance or a satellite phone. This can be daunting, but you will easily thrive and survive with the right gear and attitude.
© Craig KoleskyDid you pack the essentials?
Can you start a fire or purify water? Probably not. So, we take along some water purification tablets, firelighters and matches. Simple. Use the dust-resistant Wolf Pack Pro storage box and put matches, head torches, bug spray, sunblock, firelighters, bottle opener, rope, duct tape, and any other essentials you don’t want to leave home without into it.
© Craig KoleskyAre you prepared for the unexpected?
Are you prepared for a cold front, never-ending rain or extreme desert heat? If you live or like to camp in a place with frigid temperatures, then putting a diesel heater in your vehicle is a great idea, and you’ll never have to worry about being cold again.
The Easy Out Awning or any other awning is a great way to provide shelter from rain and sunshine. Most major awning makers also produce an awning room that protects from the cold and wet. What happens if you get stuck? Hopefully, you’ve got a shovel or set of MAXTRAX on your Front Runner roof rack; they should get you going again in no time. Ensure you’ve got the right gear to deal with unexpected situations.
© Craig KoleskySort out your sleeping set-up.
We spend a lot of time sleeping, and this is the one thing you want to get right, especially if wild camping and there are wild animals about. There’s nothing like the sounds of nature to fall asleep to, but your senses will be heightened when wild camping and a small bird miles away might sound like a Pterodactyl in your tent. The Front Runner Roof Top Tent will ensure you’re off the ground, away from the creepy crawlies and slithering snakes; it’s a beautiful way to sleep while wild camping.
© Michael Rupp © Craig Kolesky
Have you covered the basics?
When camping, you want to be able to eat, relax and sleep well. The following bits of gear will help you get those important basics of wild camping right: the Front Runner Roof Top Tent is a comfy and easy-to-set-up sleeping option. When it comes to versatile and instant gas cookers, you can’t beat the CADAC Safari Chef 30 next to your BBQ Fire Pit and start planning that next great adventure.
© George FernandezAm I allowed to be here?
This is an important question; many incredible legal wild camping spots exist worldwide. Landowners know there’s a demand for this sort of thing, and they oblige by allowing controlled wild camping. If you know how and where to look, you can have a mind-blowing wild camping experience; make sure you’re allowed to camp there first.
© Bartek KolaczkowskiPower to the wild campers?
Wild camping is excellent if your Dometic CFX3 fridge and Telescopic Camping Light (also known as the lion early warning system) have the power to run correctly. Here are three great additional power source options for you to consider: a solar panel, a second vehicle battery, and a portable power source; they will ensure you can power up your various devices.