AARP’s Smart Guide to Camping

35 tips to help you become the consummate camper

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Matt Alderton,

AARP

Published August 26, 2025

In this story

There’s no such thing as a cure-all, but nature comes pretty close. In 2024, scientists reported that older adults who regularly participate in outdoor activities spend less money on health care than older adults who don’t. Researchers noted that outdoor activities improve “mental health, cognition, eating habits and activities of daily living,” which results in reduced medical expenditures.

There are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors. However, camping might be one of the best. A 2022 study of nearly 11,000 people found that campers are more likely to be “flourishing” than non-campers. The key is careful planning and ample forethought, so we’ve assembled this AARP Smart Guide. Whether you’re a veteran camper or a total newbie, it has everything you need to know to become a camping connoisseur.

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Be sure to get checked out by your doctor before beginning your camping adventure.

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ARE YOU READY?

1. Get a health check

Before you get too excited about camping, make sure you’re physically up for it, says lifelong camper Scott Jensen, founder and owner of Near Zero, a maker of lightweight backpacking gear. “It’s always smart to check in with your doctor, especially if you’re heading into higher elevations or planning physical activity,” he says.

Be especially cautious if you feel sick or have a chronic health condition, advises 65-year-old camper Janine Pettit, a social influencer for the RV Industry Association and cofounder of Girl Camper, a camping club and community for girls and women. “Postpone or cancel if there is any chance that something more serious may arise,” she says. “For those with chronic health issues, make sure all of your prescriptions are filled and you have a larger supply than you might need. … Better safe than sorry.”

2. Assess your physical fitness

Camping is a great way to unwind, but “even a relaxing trip involves some physical effort,” says hiking and backpacking guide Alison Watta, creator and editor of the travel and outdoors website ExplorationSolo.com. “Before you head out, consider the effort required to pack and unload your car, set up the tent and inflate your sleeping pad — even walking to and from the restroom, often over uneven ground. This could be more strenuous than you think.”

A dry run can be a good way to assess your physical readiness, Watta notes. “Practice setting up your campsite at home,” she suggests. “Then wait a couple of hours and take it down. This simple rehearsal will help you determine if you are able to lift and carry your gear, if you feel steady when bending down to set things up, and if you can manage setup without tiring.”

3. Build strength and stamina

If backpacking is part of your plan, practice that, too. “Put on a weighted pack with about 20 pounds and walk,” Watta says. “It’s OK if you don’t have all the gear for a trip; dumbbells or canned goods wrapped in a towel can add the weight you need. Try a 2-mile hike with 20 pounds and see how it goes. Then increase your distance to 5 miles. Continue to build by increasing weight or distance.”

Regular exercise will help prime your body for the rigors of the outdoors. “Regular daily walks will help build stamina and cardiovascular health. Light strength training will prepare you for moving gear back and forth,” Watta continues. “High-intensity interval training classes mixed with full-body strength training is a good regimen. Squats, lunges and deadlifts help strengthen your legs. And don’t forget your core. A strong core will help keep your back safe.”

4. Set realistic goals

If you’re new to camping, start small, suggests Andy Sicard, superintendent of Grandfather Mountain State Park in Banner Elk, North Carolina. In addition to setting up the tent at home, he suggests that you try sleeping in it overnight. “If that is doable, then work towards the goals of going somewhere to camp or spending multiple days at home outside without going in for anything,” he says. And remember: It’s OK if everything doesn’t go as planned. “Part of the camping experience is learning how to adapt, laugh at your mishaps and let go of the idea that everything has to be perfect,” Watta says. “With each trip, you’ll get better at setting up your gear, preparing meals you love and knowing exactly what to pack. The key is to go easy on yourself. Choose trips that match your ability and comfort level. Enjoy nature at your own pace.”

Do you prefer camping with a group, a friend or all by yourself? Find your camping style before you set out.

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WHAT’S YOUR CAMPING STYLE?

5. Solo vs. group camping

Camping can be an individual or team sport. “Solo camping offers more solitude but takes a bit more preparation,” Jensen says. Echoes frequent camper Juan Castells, author of the solo travel blog PlanetOfAdventures.com, “It’s not for everyone, but everyone should try it at least once, as you end up discovering a lot about yourself.” When camping solo, take additional safety measures, starting with telling someone you know about your plans.

The main advantage of group camping is additional muscle power, Castells says. Groups can share equipment and responsibilities, which lightens the load for everyone. If you’re inexperienced, camping with a partner or a group could also be safer, says Andrew Roberts, cofounder and lead guide at EXP Journeys, a travel company that organizes luxury camping trips. “It’s always better to have someone else with you just for those worst-case scenarios,” he says. “If you are set on a solo experience, I would suggest finding a campground that has very easy access and has other campers around. This gives you the ability to retreat easily if needed due to weather, animal encounters, illness, etc., and also gives you access to other campers who could assist you should you need it.”

6. Glamping offers comfort, luxury

If you want to enjoy the outdoors without giving up your creature comforts, glamorous camping, or “glamping,” might be for you. Pettit notes that while glamping is more comfortable than traditional camping, it also tends to be more costly. “There are decked-out teepees, treehouses and cabins with hotel beds, hot water on demand and even room service,” she says, adding, “You still get to lay in bed at night listening to owl calls and babbling brooks.” But glamping isn’t necessarily fancy. Sometimes it’s just more practical, according to Sicard, who cites cabin camping, which encompasses everything from humble log cabins to over-the-top chalets. “Health conditions that prevent someone from being able to be outside in only a tent should consider cabins,” he says.

7. Car camping is convenient

There are two types of car camping, according to Roberts. “The simplest form is driving to a remote area, laying down all of your seats ... and literally sleeping in your car,” he says. “Stepping up from there, you can consider a campground that you can drive to for car camping, or camping within eyeshot of your car, which gives you incredible access to be able to bring more comforts that you typically wouldn’t carry into the backcountry.” For the latter, you can sleep in a tent or a pop-up camper towed behind your vehicle. “The benefit of car camping is you are quite mobile, so you can choose from an abundance of campsites,” says camping enthusiast Richard Campbell, founder of 10Adventures.com, a platform for booking custom hiking and cycling holidays. Car camping is affordable, too, Campbell adds: “Often your only cost is the $20 to $40 fee for the campsite.” The downside of car camping, compared to RV camping and perhaps glamping, is that you may be more exposed to the weather. “In the mountains, spring and autumn can be quite cold,” Campbell says. “In lower-elevation areas, summer can be unbearable.”

8. RV camping is for road-trippers

RV camping “combines the adventure of the outdoors with the comforts of home,” says Diane Eichler, senior vice president of marketing at Kampgrounds of America (KOA), a franchise of privately owned campgrounds with more than 500 locations across the country. “RVs allow you to bring your living space with you, complete with beds, a kitchen and bathroom facilities, depending on the type of RV you have.” Eichler cites comfort, convenience and mobility as RV camping’s greatest advantages. The greatest disadvantage is cost. “Between purchasing or renting an RV and fuel expenses, this can be a pricier option than tent camping,” says Eichler, adding that the size of RVs also can be a disincentive. “RVs require accessible roads and level sites for parking, which can restrict how far off the beaten path you go.”

9. Backcountry camping is risky yet rewarding

Backcountry camping is the most strenuous and remote kind of “roughing it.” “Backcountry camping is when you leave the roads, cars, power lines and anything manmade behind. Everything you need and want goes in a backpack and you carry it to your campsite, whether that be a mile or 20 miles from the trailhead,” Roberts says. “Some people spend a night or two backcountry camping, and some people trek for weeks.” The benefits are “isolation and complete immersion into the wilderness,” Roberts continues. “It is a great way to disconnect from the real world for a few days.” Although there are rewards, there are also big risks. “You are on your own, sometimes hours from help. You need to be in good shape; know how to plan your trip, including finding campsites and water; and carry everything you need in your pack.”

Consider accessibility when choosing a camping site.

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FIND AN AGE-FRIENDLY CAMPSITE

10. Prioritize accessibility

To maximize safety and enjoyment, choose your campsite carefully, says Peter Gros, cohost of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild, which airs on NBC and the Peacock streaming service. “For older adults, I recommend choosing campsites with accessibility features,” he says. “Look for locations with well-maintained bathhouses, access to clean drinking water and designated parking areas that are close to campsites or amenities. Campgrounds with onsite rangers are especially helpful, as they can offer guidance on suitable trails and provide support in case of emergencies.” Flat terrain is crucial, Campbell adds. “Many sites are elevated with steep drop-offs of 1 to 3 feet, which I have personally fallen down in the dark,” he says. To make sure your campsite meets your needs, do your research ahead of time.

11. Assess available amenities

Campgrounds may or may not come with extra amenities. If comfort and convenience are important to you, look for campsites with showers, flushing toilets and potable water. “Most campgrounds have potable water spigots every two to three campsites,” Watta says. RV camping typically requires more amenities than other types of camping, Pettit adds. “If you are camping in an RV, you will want a site that supports the RV’s systems while it is parked. These systems will run on batteries while you’re getting to your destination, but if you will be parked for any period of time, you will want electric, water and sewer hookups,” she says. “Most larger RVs have holding tanks for sewer, so that is not always necessary, and RV parks also offer the ‘honeypot’ service where the truck will come and pump your tanks when necessary.”

12. Choose the right time of year

When it comes to camping, timing is everything. “Spring and fall are ideal: mild temperatures and fewer bugs,” Jensen says. “Summer is great, too, if you plan around shade or higher elevation. Always check weather and fire restrictions before you go.” Echoes Gros, “Summer is often a popular choice for camping because of its generally stable weather. But you don’t have to limit yourself to just one season; camping can be a year-round adventure with the right preparation.” For older adults, comfort and safety come down to choosing days with moderate, consistent temperatures, Gros says.

13. Mind your budget

Safety and accessibility aren’t the only campground considerations. There’s affordability, too. “Many parks offer discounts for seniors, veterans and annual pass holders,” Jensen says. Among the places that offer discounts are national parks: Older adults can purchase a lifetime pass for just $80 that includes park access and, in some cases, discounts on camping fees, which are typically extra. You might also be able to save money on campsite rentals by becoming a member of Thousand Trails or KOA, Pettit points out. The former gives members deals and discounts on campsites — including for campers 55 and over — while the latter has a loyalty program that lets you earn points and discounts every time you camp.

Your tent or other type of shelter is probably the most important equipment decision you'll have to make when you start camping.

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GEAR UP

14. Find the right shelter

If you’ll be staying in a rented cabin or yurt, know ahead of time what you’re getting into. “Be sure to read the description on the website carefully,” Watta says. “Many cabins are simple buildings with bunk beds and do not have running water. Many cabins have electricity, but this is not always the case. If it’s important that you have power, call ahead and confirm.”

For RV camping, “consider the length of vehicle you can safely drive, if you are willing to dispose of the waste in the holding tanks or connect to the sewage system, and the gas money it will take to travel in on top of the rental expenses,” Sicard says. For tent camping, consider size, weight, weatherproofing and ease of assembly. “Most backpacking tents are not designed for someone over 4 feet to stand up in. They want to keep the tents lightweight.” Tents you might use if you’re car camping can often have 6 feet of headroom inside, says hiking guide Dave McGlashan, owner of outdoor adventure company Adventure Treks. Regardless of the tent you choose, mind the zippers. “With tents, the zippers are typically the first thing to break,” he says. “Always look for large YKK zippers and metal zipper teeth.”

15. Make sure sleeping is comfortable

Sleeping outside requires two things: a pad under you, and covers over you. “Good padding is essential for sleeping outdoors,” says Watta, who recommends a thick, self-inflating air mattress for car camping. “You can also bring a pillow from home and blankets. In warmer months, you can save money by bringing blankets rather than buying sleeping bags.” In colder temperatures, however, a sleeping bag is essential.

“Choose a sleeping bag rated for the temperatures you will be camping in,” says Sicard. For backpacking, get the thickest sleeping pad you can carry, Watta advises. “Don’t skimp on comfort to save half a pound,” she says. “Go for a 4-inch sleeping pad. It may weigh 1-2 pounds, but you won’t toss and turn all night because your shoulders or hips hurt.”

Backpackers should also consider the weight of their sleeping bags. “Down sleeping bags are lightweight and breathe better than synthetic bags, but they are expensive,” Watta says. “To save money, there are good synthetic blends that are under 3 pounds, and the materials have gotten better.”

16. Bring something to sit on

Having a comfortable chair to sit in is also important. “There’s something about sitting down and having a meal or a whisky at the campfire in a comfy chair,” Roberts says. Wellbeing coach and walking guide Lea Appleton, author of Walking & Wayfinding: Create Your Own Mindful Practice, One Step at a Time, recommends visiting your local outdoor or sporting goods store to try out floor models before you buy one. “

Consider if you will be carrying your chair any further than the trunk of the car to the fire ring, because weight and size will matter,” says Appleton. “If you have difficulty getting up out of a chair at home, consider a chair that is higher and doesn’t leave you low to the ground. Also, some chairs rock or are less stable. As we age, having a chair that doesn’t move around may feel more secure.”

17. Pack cooking gear, but not too much

For cooking and eating, keep things simple. “Do you have a place to keep things cool? If not, snack-like meals are probably best, or canned goods — but that can be heavy if carrying long distances,” Sicard says. “There are premade dehydrated meal options that are easy to carry and usually just require boiling water. Cooking stoves come in all options, from compact and lightweight to full-size grills that are made for camping.” Don’t forget a basic camping mess kit with lightweight pots, pans, plates, bowls and utensils.

18. Store your food and water safely

Proper food storage is paramount. “I never leave food unattended, and I never feed animals,” Gros says. “Even a single snack left out can attract curious visitors, and once animals associate campsites with easy meals, it puts both people and wildlife in danger. I always store food in scent-proof bags or sealed containers. And in bear country, I rely on bear canisters or hang food in a dry bag at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the nearest trunk. It’s also important to cook and eat at a distance from where you sleep, so lingering food odors don’t attract animals overnight.”

Clean water is just as essential. “In remote areas where potable water may not be available, I always carry a reliable water-filtration system or purification tablets,” Gros continues. “As a backup, boiling water from a flowing stream is also a safe method.”

19. Don’t forget the lights and power

Light and electricity can make camping safer and more comfortable. The easiest solution is a great headlamp, Roberts says. “The last thing you want to have to do if you’re cooking in the dark is hold a flashlight or a lantern up. If you enjoy lighting in your tent, the headlamp works great there also,” he continues. “But there are really great small, light rechargeable lanterns that put off an impressive amount of light.” If you’re car camping, consider a battery power system. It can generate enough power to charge all your devices and even run a CPAP machine.

“These systems can be charged before you leave the house, from a car’s 12-volt system or even with solar panels,” says Roberts. Adds Watta, “A portable charger that is at least 5,000 mAh [milliampere-hour, a measure of how much energy a battery can store] will power one phone and a camera on a weekend trip. For additional devices, consider a 10,000 mAh charger.” There are power considerations for RV campers, too, according to Pettit. “If you are camping in an RV that is hooked up to shore power at the campground, always use a surge detector device,” she says. “This will shut down your RV systems in the event of a power surge from an electrical storm or outside force, and protect your RV appliances and electrical system.”

20. Bring these other essentials

When nature calls, make sure you’re prepared, says Jensen, who recommends bringing “biodegradable wipes, a digging trowel, biodegradable soap and a pack-out bag for waste,” even on a day hike.

“They’re easy to overlook but make a big difference for hygiene and environmental impact,” he says. Other smart sundries to pack, according to Gros, are a pocketknife or multitool, plus duct tape for repairing torn tents and busted gear. And don’t forget about fire. “Always have a backup way to light a fire,” Pettit says. “Learn to use an old-fashioned flint. A few fire starters are helpful when damp wood won’t get going.” Because you can’t start a fire with wet wood, one more thing worth bringing is a plastic tarp, says Pettit, who uses hers to keep firewood and camping supplies dry.

21. Shop smart to save money

Camping gear can get expensive. You may be able to save money by buying preassembled camping kits, Jensen suggests. “It can be more cost-effective to get a bundle rather than buying everything piece by piece, especially if you’re looking for something that can double as an emergency kit,” he says. “Something like a well-stocked camping bundle also makes a great 72-hour (emergency survival) kit: reliable, comfortable and actually enjoyable to use.” In some cases, renting gear or buying it secondhand might also be more economical than purchasing it new, especially if you’re not sure what you’ll need.

It's important to dress for the weather when camping. Layering definitely helps.

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DRESS PROPERLY

22. Choose appropriate clothing

Because you can go from being cold to sweating in an instant when you’re in the wilderness, layering is essential. “Regardless of the weather, you’ll want a base layer that wicks moisture away from your body. Wicking fabrics include nylon, polyester and Merino wool. You likely already have these items. Running gear and gym clothing is almost all made of wicking materials,” Watta says. “Avoid cotton, including khakis, and denim jeans. Cotton becomes heavy when wet. It also traps moisture against your skin.”

Cold days call for an insulating layer of wool or fleece on top. “Many people like to pack a down jacket. They are light in weight but provide a lot of warmth,” continues Watta, who also emphasizes the importance of rain gear, starting with a waterproof outer shell. “When camping, the most important thing is to stay dry.”

23. Get the right footwear

What you wear on your feet is just as important as what you wear on the rest of your body. “Your feet do the heavy lifting outdoors, so choose gear that protects and supports them,” says Andrew Straley, senior director of digital marketing and loyalty at KOA. “Look for waterproof, breathable boots with solid ankle support and high-traction outsoles.” Fit is critical, according to Straley. “Break your boots in before your trip to avoid blisters,” he continues. “And always pair them with moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and blister-free.” Surprisingly, a pair of sandals is a good idea, too. “After a day of hiking, I find it very important to let my feet breathe,” Castells says. “It’s also a lot more comfortable and practical once you set up camp to go out and about.”

A first aid kit is a good thing to pack on your camping trip.

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BE SAFE

24. Bring a first aid kit

A first aid kit is a must, according to Gros. “I pack supplies for cuts, scrapes and blisters, along with antiseptics and pain relievers,” he says. “Tweezers and tick-removal tools are always handy. And if I’m heading into an area with venomous snakes or spiders, I bring a snakebite kit to handle those, too.” Gros also recommends burn cream, instant cold packs and elastic bandages for more serious sprains or reactions.

For more remote camping, he suggests including a small first aid manual, which can be helpful in remote areas where professional help may be delayed. Allergy medications are a good addition as well. Watta notes that it’s important to “pack everything in a waterproof pouch to keep the items clean and dry.” As important as first aid items is first aid knowledge, adds McGlashan. “If you are really excited about backpacking and camping away from your car, I would encourage a wilderness first aid course,” he says. “They can be completed over a weekend and cover how to manage most issues that come up when you are away from a hospital or emergency services.”

25. Pack your medications correctly

With the right preparation, your medications can go camping with you. “If you need to take medication regularly, be sure you bring extra so you have more than what you need,” Appleton advises. “If you need to keep things refrigerated, check out the various cooling systems, including small refrigerator systems the size of an insulated water bottle. … For medication that doesn’t have to stay so cold, there are a number of battery-free systems that keep medicine cool rather than cold.” Also, where you store your medications can be just as important as how. “If you have an EpiPen, insulin, inhaler or other lifesaving medication, keep it somewhere easy to reach, like a side pocket of a hiking pack,” Watta says. “Make sure everyone you are traveling with knows where to locate it in an emergency.”

26. Bring bug spray and sun protection

Two of campers’ worst enemies are bugs and sun. To deal with the former, pack bug spray. “The most effective bug repellent is any that contains DEET,” McGlashan says. “If you use DEET, do not get it on your phone, watch or anything plastic. It is corrosive to those things.”

Although studies have shown that DEET is safe, many people would still rather avoid it. In that case, “treat your clothes ahead of time with permethrin,” McGlashan suggests. “This is something that you’ll treat your clothes with while at home. You cannot apply this properly if you bring it on your camping trip.” For a more natural approach, try Natrapel bug spray or even the original variety of Listerine, though he notes that you’ll have to reapply it frequently. A lemon eucalyptus-based bug spray can also be effective.

For sun protection, McGlashan prefers UPF-rated protective clothing to sunscreen. (UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor.) “Long sleeves, long pants and a sun hat are your best way to keep from getting burnt,” he says.

27. Be smart about fires

For many people, campfires are a great part of camping. But they can also be dangerous. “Fires should only be set in an approved area. That can be in fire rings or on the open ground if burn bans are not in place and it’s legal to have a fire in that area,” Sicard says. “The classic fire extinguisher is not necessary to carry in the backcountry, but do have a means to put out any fire you start.” Adds Pettit, “The fire extinguisher around the campfire can be as simple as a bucket of water you have filled and ready. Always rake the area around the fire ring to get rid of any dried leaves or debris that can catch fire if a spark lands outside the ring. You can wet this area, too.” Finally, keep the fire low.

28. Make sure you can call for help

Your smartphone can be a lifeline during emergencies, but it might not work when you’re camping. “Check an app like AllTrails to see if other hikers report having cell service on the route you’re taking. If a cell signal is unlikely, a satellite communication device like the Garmin inReach or Zoleo may be a smart investment,” Watta says. “There’s also the satellite feature on the iPhone 14 models and above, but you should test this out well before your trip.” Satellite communication devices require a subscription, but the peace of mind might be worth the investment. Because even the most rugged electronics can fail, make sure to have an alternative, analog way to call for help. “The best tried-and-true emergency device is a whistle,” McGlashan says. “The international sign of distress is three blasts in short succession.”

29. Watch out for wildlife

Animals can be dangerous to humans, and vice versa. It’s therefore best to keep your distance, according to Gros, who recommends watching wildlife — but always through binoculars. “I make sure to keep at least 25 yards from most wildlife, and 100 yards from predators like bears or mountain lions,” he says. “If I’m in bear country, I bring bear spray and even a bear bell on my bag to alert them ahead of time that I am in the area. If a bear comes too close, I start by speaking in a calm, even voice. If that doesn’t work, I firmly yell, ‘Back bear! Back bear!’ which is usually enough to scare them off.” Do your homework, Watta adds. “Know the types of animals you may encounter and what to do,” she says. “Coming across a black bear is different from a grizzly bear, and moose can be particularly stubborn.”

a man and boy with a dog near a campfire

Camping with your pet and your grandkids can truly enhance your outdoor experience.

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MAXIMIZE THE CAMPING EXPERIENCE

30. Plan fun activities

There’s a lot more to camping than sitting around a fire and sleeping in a tent. “Remember, part of the camping experience is to enjoy the company that you are with,” McGlashan says. Echoes Pettit, “Camping is … a great time to try some outdoor games. … It is also a great time to resurrect some new and old card games around the picnic table.”

If you’re creative, bring photography equipment, a journal or painting supplies, McGlashan suggests. If you enjoy learning about nature as much as you enjoy being in it, try hiking, birding or stargazing. And don’t forget about water-based activities if there’s a river or lake nearby.

31. Set a daily schedule

Plan activities like hiking, cooking or wildlife watching during the early morning or late afternoon, Gros says. “These timeframes offer three important benefits,” he notes. “Wildlife is more active, increasing your chances of observing animals in their natural habitats. … Temperatures are milder, which makes physical activities more comfortable. Crowds tend to be thinner, allowing for a more peaceful and immersive experience.”

Remember that everything takes a little longer to do when you’re camping, including routine tasks like cooking and bathing. “Nothing takes 15 minutes,” says McGlashan, who likes to divide his days into three chunks: post-breakfast, post-lunch and post-dinner. “I always like to structure my days to have two of those blocks filled with an activity, and one for relaxation,” he says. “If you fill two of your three chunks of the day, you always have one to nap, chat or just hang out.”

32. Simplify meal prep

Campsite cooking requires more commitment and creativity than your average meal. Plan accordingly. “I always encourage people to practice before camping,” McGlashan says. “In your backyard, pull out your camp cooking gear and make dinner. It is a little different when you are using a camping stove or fire for your meal.” And keep things simple. McGlashan recommends bringing fruits and vegetables that have some structure to them; apples, oranges, broccoli, peppers, onions and kale are all good choices.

Do not bring raw meat. “Packets of … tuna are wonderful. Dried sausages or precooked sausages are also a stable and great addition to any meal. And cheese. A small bag of shredded cheese can make any meal more filling and won’t go bad after a few days outside of a refrigerator.” Among McGlashan’s favorite camping meals are a charcuterie board with dried fruit and a baguette; “mac and trees” with pasta, powdered cheese, broccoli and sausage; and precooked gnocchi and packaged pesto.

33. Bring the grandkids

Camping is a great way for children to connect with the outdoors. “I bring my children and grandchildren along so they can see wildlife and learn to respect it,” Gros says. “Prep always starts before the trip. I will explain that we’re visitors to the animals’ home. These trips are about sharing wonder and teaching care for the wild.” If your grandkids aren’t sure about camping, ease into it, Roberts suggests. “My goal for bringing kids into the wilderness is for them to leave wanting more of it, and I think the biggest way to successfully do that is for them to have an incredible but comfortable experience,” he says. “If your grandchildren are hesitant at all to go and sleep in a tent, maybe start with a cabin or a glamping experience and see how it goes. … But if you start with too much, then most of the time the kids won’t be interested in trying camping again.”

34. Don’t forget Fido

“Dogs make the best campfire companions,” says Straley, who recommends bringing basic gear like a leash, collapsible bowls, food, a comfortable dog bed, waste bags and a long tie-out that allows them to roam freely but safely at your campsite. “Always keep your dog leashed when required, clean up after them and be mindful of barking, especially at night. Being a good neighbor makes for a better trip for everyone.”

Not all campgrounds allow dogs, so check ahead, McGlashan advises. Also, be sure to pack a pet-friendly first aid kit, says Britt Kascjak, author of the pet-friendly outdoor travel blog TheKasPack.com. “Additional supplies to consider include styptic powder, vet wrap bandages, a tick-removal tool and pet-safe antiseptic,” she says. “I also highly recommend that every dog parent bring a muzzle. Even the friendliest dog may bite when experiencing extreme pain.”

35. Leave no trace when you depart

Campers should follow the seven principles of “Leave No Trace,” created by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: Plan ahead and prepare; travel and camp on durable surfaces; dispose of waste properly; leave what you find; minimize campfire impacts; respect wildlife; and be considerate of other visitors. “Bring durable, sealable storage bags or containers to carry out all your trash, including food scraps, wrappers and hygiene items,” Gros says. “If you carried it in, it should go back out with you.”

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Matt Alderton is a contributing writer who specializes in health and wellness, travel and technology. His work has also appeared in USA Today, Forbes and The Washington Post.