Primitive camping doesn’t have to be uncomfortable.
When we first started considering camping as an alternative to expensive hotel rooms, we wanted to make sure our camping experience was comfortable. This is a list of our absolute must haves.
An Instant Tent
You may think that a tent is a tent and any one will do, however, a quicker set-up and break-down means more time to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
Disclosure: Roadtrippingthree.com is an affiliate of Amazon, so we do get a very small percentage when an Amazon item that is linked to our page is purchased using our link to the item.
The Core 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent has been wonderful over the last couple of years. We have had it in high winds, heavy rains, cool temperatures (around 50°F), and hot temperatures (around 100°F). It has performed really well, with the exception of a tiny hole in the bottom of the tent that let in a small amount of water during a strong thunderstorm…nothing that duct tape couldn’t fix. The set-up and break-down of this tent is relatively quick, and the more we do it, the faster it goes.
The 9 person description is a little misleading. It means that 9 people can lay next to one another along the floor, but that would be cramped and uncomfortable. A good way to make sure that there will be enough room is to divide the 9 into half, so it is really more comfortable for 4 people.
Heavy Duty Tent Stakes
One of the worst feelings is camping on the side of a mountain, in 13 mph winds, and feeling like you are going to be blown down the mountain. Heavy duty tent stakes are a must. They give you an extra sense of security. We purchased ours from Bass Pro Shop, however, Amazon has some options at a more economical price.
A Rubber Mallet
Having a rubber mallet in your tool kit will help you get stubborn heavy duty tent stakes into hard, rocky soil. Purchasing one with a hook on the end is a good idea. Often, tent stakes get stuck in the ground, so the hook is beneficial in getting them out. Before the next camping trip, another mallet will have to be purchased, because the hook at the end was removable, and it is now separating from the mallet. We purchased our mallet from Bass Pro Shop, but, again, Amazon has some options at a more economical price.
A Cot and Inflatable Mattress Combo
Anyone who has back, hip, or knee issues knows that it can be nearly impossible to be comfortable in a tent. If you can relate, consider getting a cot with an inflatable mattress.
The Coleman Cot and Air Mattress is a must for our trips. It sits right about at knee level, which makes it easier to get in and out of.
A Camping Toilet
Having to use the bathroom can be uncomfortable when camping. There are many camping toilets to choose from. Opt for one that meets your needs.
The more portable and compact a camping toilet is, the better. If you are on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, you will need to carry your toilet paper or wet wipes out with you when you leave, so make sure to have trash bags with you. Also, burying your urine and feces is a good idea, just do not bury your used toilet paper and wipes. If you choose to bury your bodily waste, having a camping shovel helps greatly. They are compact and often fit easily into your camping toilet carrying bag.
These must haves keep primitive camping comfortable and easy. That means more time enjoying family and the great outdoors.
