Introduction
Many people imagine beach camping as a 10 mile trek to a remote coastline that is exhausting rather than relaxing. This doesn’t have to be the case. With the right planning, gear and attitude, you can have a great time camping at the beach without years of experience. Find a beach near you and beginning planning your ideal camping vacation to the beach.
Step 1
Before you step foot in the car, it’s important to plan for every eventuality. This planning for the beach camping trip begins with finding the ideal location. Keep in mind you and your family’s physical needs when picking a camping site. If you’re bringing along smaller children or people who cannot handle a long hike, choose a site that’s close to your home with access to a town or hotel, just in case. If you are an experienced hiker or outdoor enthusiast, pick a spot that’s more remote. Call ahead to inquire if reservations are required to camp at the beach site. If so, call ahead at least one to two weeks before the intended camping date, especially if it’s a popular site or a busy weekend. One last point: make sure that you’re allowed to build a campfire on the site. Many sites, especially near a heavily wooded area, won’t allow campfires built on the beach. If this is an issue, consider a separate site.
Step 2
Make a checklist of the basics you’ll need for the beach camping trip. These include: sleeping bags, tents, cookware (including a non-stick frying pan, coffee pot and a pot to boil water), plenty of fresh drinking water (unless you plan on boiling the stream or river water), warm clothing (avoid bringing blue jeans), towels, dishes, food, waterproof matches or at least two lighters and multi-purpose knife. These are just the basics for the beach camping trip. Plan your packing checklist around your family’s own unique needs.
Step 3
Pack your bags well, and lightly if you plan on trekking to a remote location. Arrive well before dark to allow for reaching the site and setting up camp. Once again, if the beach campout is held in a remote location, allow at least one hour per mile of hiking time. Find an ideal spot for your tents and make it even more ideal by smoothing the sand with your hands or a small rake and removing any sticks or rocks. Keep in mind that water is always moving and if you’re camping near an ocean, allow for tidal movement when choosing your site.
Step 4
Before packing up to leave, pay attention to wash off all your equipment, as sand will get into everything. Protect your objects while camping by storing them in plastic tarps or containers to stop the encroaching sand. Pay attention that you leave your site clean and extinguish any fires before leaving. Be safe by watching the extinguished fire for at least one hour before leaving.
Step 5
Bring along a cell phone and first aid kit in case of emergency. If something more catastrophic occurs, don’t hesitate to contact the local ranger station or authorities to seek medical attention. Remind campers to bring along any medications to guard against potential catastrophe.
