OutdoorHub Staff 09.13.24
Have you ever heard about minimalist camping? It’s all about enjoying nature without the clutter. It’s about packing light, staying organized, and maximizing outdoor time. As you can see, the option has numerous benefits, quite enough to make it a new camping trend. Want to learn more about how to pack and go in a light manner? This guide is for you!
Why Should You Opt for Minimalist Camping?
Why carry the world on your back when you don’t have to? Minimalist camping comes with a bunch of undeniable benefits that underpin its popularity. Here are some to know about:
- Speed — the more stuff you bring, the quicker your preparation — easy as that.
- Easyness — first, you don’t need to pack much. Then, you won’t have to carry all the stuff. Finally, you won’t need to unpack everything and do weeks of washing and ironing.
- Price — prudent marketers have made us think that we need piles of special equipment to survive in the wilderness. Surprise: we don’t. I’ll discuss the only ten must-takes a bit later in this writing.
- Less clutter — by buying tons of camping things, you clutter your in-home environment. After all, they are used for only about five days in the year and stored for other 350+. That space can definitely serve you better.
- Time-saving — yes, those special gears can make your camp nights more convenient (read: urbanistic). But what about those campsite romantics you sacrifice? It can get really interesting!
10 Things to Pack as a Minimalist Camper
Energizing Foods and Drinks
Nutrition is your supportive system while you’re out camping. To pack it lightweight, choose high-calorie foods like nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars. Bring powdered drink mixes for quick hydration and energy boosts. Personally, I adore these thc drinks and seltzers. They help me during my hikes when I need to recharge my batteries and keep myself going.
Lightweight Tent
A tent is one of those must-take things you cannot go without (unless you want to up your trip and sleep under the stars). But opt for a compact, easy-to-set-up choice. Avoid chasing luxury — there’s no place for fancy when you’re packing minimally. Plus, look for a weather-resistant tent that can be packed down small. You want to purchase only the universal, multi-functional gear, remember?
Sleeping Bag
Choose a lightweight yet warm sleeping bag that can conveniently fit into your backpack. Also, make sure it’s well-adjusted for the weather conditions you expect to encounter.
Portable Stove
It’s how you’re going to cook food on your trip. A small, efficient stove is perfect for minimalist cooking. But you should also consider the fuel it uses — look for ones with compact fuel sources.
Multi-tool
A good multi-tool can replace several items in your pack. For example, you can open a can with it or slice vegetables with a knife attached. In any case, it’s the thing you can carry right on your belt. Some campers pile all separate utensils in their bag, but now you know how to do it correctly.
Water Filtration System
You will definitely need water on your way to drink and cook. Sure, you can carry dozens of water battles (if you manage to, of course). But you can also make this more prudently: pack a good filtration system instead. This way, you can safely drink from streams and lakes. Water purification tables are also a good alternative, so choose any variant that best suits you.
Compact Cookware
A single lightweight pot can serve multiple purposes. Choose one that’s easy to clean and store. Additionally, you can visit your local stores to find convenient cookware sets with plates, cups, and other utensils that all fit into a pan. Note that you should think about your camping menu beforehand, so you carry only those products you really need — no extras here, remember?
First Aid Kit
A small, basic first-aid kit is a must. Make sure it includes bandages, antiseptic, fever-reducing medicines, sunscreen, and things against bug bites so that tiny inconveniences don’t ruin your trip. And don’t forget about any personal medication you may need for your chronics.
Headlamp & Flashlight
Hands-free light is crucial. A headlamp with extra batteries is essential for nighttime activities and emergencies. Alternatively, look for a flashlight — this can be your only light source in a remote area, so don’t ignore it. Pay attention to LED lights, as they are typically brighter. And don’t forget about the charging element! If batteries power your lamp, bring an extra set. Otherwise, get a lightweight power bank on your trip.
Navigation Tools
A map, compass and a fully charged GPS should always be in your pack. They will help you know where you’re going and how to return. You can just take a telephone for GPS navigation, but be sure to download offline cards first.
Who Should Become a Minimalist Camper?
Eventually, packing less sounds like an excellent way for a lighter trip. But soon, you realize that it also means less comfort on your way. So, definitely, these rigid conditions won’t fit everyone. Here’s my list of camper types who would definitely like this lightweight way to pack:
- Nature-Lovers — if you want to communicate with nature more, this way is your go-to. Remember the campsite story I’ve told above? Pack light and gaze at the stars without extra gear — that’s how it works.
- Mobile Travelers — if you’re used to covering long routes on one trip, you’d probably want to carry it light. These people usually focus on experience instead of gear, so the type will suit them.
- Survivors — if you’re sick of the hothouse urban settings, you’ll probably want a good survival challenge. But in the case of extremes, don’t forget what I’ve mentioned above. Those things are just what I called them — essentials.
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With these essentials, you’re ready to embrace minimalist camping. It’s not about sacrificing comfort; it’s about enhancing your experience. Travel light, stay nimble, and enjoy the wild like never before.
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