Car Camping 101: A Beginner's Course for New Trekking Dads- Module 1: Introduction to Car Camping

Embarking On Your New Adventure

Hello Trekkers,

Embarking on a new adventure with your family and getting them out of the house can be a little scary and stressful. This is especially true if you have a limited skill set when it comes to camping and outdoor activities. Obviously, if you are here, you are wanting to get your family outdoors and a great way to do this is to go car camping.

I know my first adventure with my family was a camping trip in the backyard. We set up the tent. Grilled hotdogs, made s’mores, and slept under the stars in the safety and comfort of our own backyard.

This was a great way for me to introduce myself and my kids to camping, setting up camp, eating outdoors, and sleeping in the tent. This successful outing gave me the confidence to take my family to a local car camping destination, and do it for “real”.

Having your first campout in your backyard is a great way to start. Especially if you have never set up your tent and you’re unfamiliar with how it works. It will also give you a good idea of the gear you will need to keep everyone happy and comfortable.

Having your first campout in your backyard is a perfect way to introduce everybody to it while you can still retreat into the safety of your home if things break bad.

This post is a part of a comprehensive course that is designed for a first-time dad wanting to develop the skills needed to get himself and his family ready for their first backyard or car camping adventure.

In this post, we will take the guesswork out of car camping, discuss its many benefits, set some realistic expectations for your first trip, and answer the fundamental question: why go car camping at all?

What is Car Camping?

Two of the great things about car camping is its simplicity and accessibility. Instead of hiking miles and miles into the wilderness carrying a heavy backpack, you’ll drive your car directly to a campsite, where you can conveniently access all your gear.

Car camping combines the essence of camping — nature, campfires, and sleeping under the stars — with the convenience of having your vehicle nearby. This is definitely a plus for first-time dads and families that are not used to camping.

Benefits of Car Camping with Family

• Convenience: With your car/vehicle nearby, you don't need to worry about packing light. This means you can bring everything that you need to be comfortable. This includes extra comforts like larger tents, plush sleeping pads, warm blankets, electric fans, and a cooler full of your kids' favorite foods and snacks. Bringing the extra comforts of home may seem excessive, but it is necessary when car camping so that everyone is comfortable especially mama and the kids.

• Safety: Being close to your vehicle provides a sense of security. If there's unexpected weather, an emergency, or if someone isn't feeling well, you have the option to retreat to the comfort and safety of your vehicle and drive away if needed.

• Flexibility: having all of your gear and being with your vehicle allows you a lot of flexibility when planning your trip. If you want to visit multiple spots or locations during your trip, car camping allows you to easily pack up and move from one site to another. Plus, if the kids forget their favorite toy, it's just a short walk back to the car. Also, at many car camping locations, it is easy to set up your campsite and then drive to surrounding destinations like hiking trails, museums, or restaurants for special meals.

• Budget-Friendly: Car camping often requires less specialized gear than backpacking. Plus, campsite fees at public parks tend to be affordable, making it a cost-effective family getaway. As an example of this, my family and I purchased a tent and the gear needed to car camp for three weeks during the summer and then one week during the winter. We actually saved money by not staying in a hotel at these locations and then we still have the car camping set up to car camp whenever we like.

• Learning Curve: For those new to camping, car camping offers an easier introduction. It allows new campers to get comfortable with the basics before possibly moving on to more advanced types of camping. Bonus Tip: It can also give you a good lesson on how strong your marriage is when you set up the tent for the first time.

Setting Expectations: Anticipating Your First Trip

As with any new adventure, it's essential to set realistic expectations to ensure a positive experience. This is especially important when everyone is new to camping. It is vital to keep a positive attitude. Include your family members in the decision-making process and have fun activities that will want them to go car camping again. Keeping the following items in mind will help with this:

• It Might Not Be Perfect: Mishaps happen. Maybe you'll forget the marshmallows or struggle with pitching the tent. Remember, it's all part of the adventure and learning process. Again, it is vital to remember to keep a positive attitude.

• Nature Can Be Unpredictable: Weather might change, or a raccoon ( what I like to call mini bears) might visit your campsite. It's essential to be prepared and flexible. A huge benefit of car camping allows you to ability to leave if you need to or go get extra items. When backpacking they always tell us not to pack our fears. The good thing about car camping is that you can pack for any eventuality, depending on the size of your vehicle.

• It’s About Bonding: Focus on quality time with your family. Singing songs, telling stories, and enjoying nature together — these are the memories that will last. This item is worth repeating. Remember, this is a great time for you to get out with your family and make some good quality memories that don’t involve electronics. Give them their own headlamp and take them out on an exciting night hike. Take them fishing and help them catch their first fish. These are things that each of you will remember for the rest of your lives.

Why Go Car Camping?

Car camping offers a unique blend of adventure and comfort. It's an opportunity to disconnect from our busy lives and reconnect with nature and our loved ones. It is vital in this day and age for dads to step up and lead their families. Getting your family outdoors even for a few days and nights will change your lives. Let’s get them off of the couch, off of the electronics, and out into the world. It teaches resilience, resourcefulness, leadership, and respect for the environment. But most importantly, it provides priceless family memories, stories to share, and a tradition that can be passed down through generations.

Taking Action:

Taking on your first car camping trip will open a door for your family like it did for mine. I am so thankful that I put my ego aside and got my family out into the backyard that first night. That first night opened up the entire world to us, and we have not looked back. Take the information that’s provided because it is an invitation invitation to explore, bond, and grow as a family. Don’t worry, we will get you ready! So pack up, drive out, and let the journey begin!

As always,

IS EVERYBODY READY?…… TREK ON!