If you’re anything like us here at Wander Camp, then you know there are few places as beautiful as the great outdoors. We live for the untouched wilderness, gorgeous landscapes, and stunning sunrises. Our tented camps find themselves in the most beautiful locations, waiting for guests just like you to arrive to experience an immersive, outdoors experience by providing the sights and sounds of nature, but also bringing along with it a few of the comforts of home.
That said, we are still a rustic glamping accommodation and we won’t be able to provide all of the comforts you may be looking for, so we’ve put together an array of recommended items for you to consider packing, as you prepare for an enjoyable and memorable stay with us.
CLOTHING
Our canvas bell style tents are warmer than a typical camping set-up and we do provide heaters for rent; however, it is still important to plan for all temperatures when glamping. Layers are the key to comfort and warmth! Depending on your camp location of choice, the summer temperatures can range from the scorching heat of the day, to below freezing over. In addition, whatever your level of adventure plans on your trip, you will want to consider packing additional clothing that is suitable for hiking and exploring as well as relaxing around the campfire! Here are a few items we’d suggest bringing along.
- A solid pair of SNEAKERS, sturdy work BOOTS, or hiking shoes – here’s a hint: don’t be afraid of getting them dirty!
- Sandals designed for the outdoors, such as Chacos or Tevas are a good idea if you plan to participate in water activities.
- Comfortable socks and underwear. We’d highly recommend bringing tall, breathable socks in order to prevent blisters. Ouch!
- Check the weather and plan to pack a variety of both long pants and shorts depending on the estimated temperatures during your stay. We also recommend a warm thermal layer that can be worn under pants on the coldest of mornings or nights.
- Long and short sleeved shirts. Remember, layers are best and can be used in cool or warm temperatures.
- Top layers – including sweatshirts, rain jackets or ponchos and puffer coats.
- Swimsuit. You never know when you’ll run into a body of water, as some of our camp locations are close to gorgeous lakes and other bodies of water. Just always make sure you read the signs and know whether or not it’s a swimmable area!
- Accessories. Think hats, sunglasses, and a backpack to help keep you comfortable during daytime outings.
ADDITIONAL SUPPLIES
One of the best parts about rustic glamping versus traditional camping is you don’t have to do the work to set-up your camp! Your tent will come filled with a a bed covered in high thread count sheets, plush down comforter(s), fleece blankets and pillows, side tables, butterfly chairs and a rug. So leave your sleeping bags and pillows at home, and get excited for a hassle-free adventurous night’s sleep.
That said, we all have our own preferences when it comes to comfort and especially if it’s your first time staying in the great outdoors, you might want a few more items to help ease you into it!
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito Repellant
- Water bottles and/or a Camelbak – you’ll want to refill them while you’re out or bring sealed water with you as we don’t have potable water at camp. *I bring 4 nalgene bottles – to fill with 1 Gallon of water a day.
- Portable SOLAR Power Bank/Charger – all of our camps are off-grid with no electricity, so any charging you need to do will have to be done in this manner or in your car prior to returning to camp for the night. Here is a great one we recommend.
FOOD/COOKING
As you prepare for your stay, you’ll want to determine whether you want to cook at camp or plan to dine out in local restaurants. The choice is yours! At Wander Camp, we do provide shared fire pits which include metal grates which can be used to prepare a meal. Just make sure you keep your food in your vehicle when it’s not being consumed to avoid attracting bugs or critters to camp!
We’d also encourage you to make your meals fun and embrace the outdoor dining experience – maybe bring cute place settings and enjoy a photogenic sunset meal.
Here are a few basic cooking supplies to consider:
- A portable propane stove and enough fuel to last the length of your stay.
- A cooler full of ice to store perishable food.
- A large water jug or lots of bottled water – water is a rustic glamping essential as most camps water isn’t potable, so make sure that you bring more than enough to be used for cooking, cleaning your supplies, and drinking. Also be sure to bring a reusable water bottle to make sure you are drinking enough water.
- Pots and pans. These will vary depending on your needs, so be sure to plan what you are cooking ahead of time in order to bring the right accessories.
- Ingredients. You’ll want to bring all of the food required to prepare your meals, as well as considering condiments, seasonings and aids such as oil, salt, pepper, etc. and any beverages outside of water that may want to consume.
- Charcoal, matches or other fire starters – just make sure you’re starting a fire in a designated area at camp in order to keep all guests safe and preserve the natural surroundings.
- Jet Boiler – this is a quick way to heat up water for instant meals on the go. An alternative option is a portable grille.
- Snacks and s’mores ingredients – you can’t have a campfire with a s’more or how about a s’moreo?
TOILETRIES
You’ll always want to check with the glamping site to see what is provided with your accommodations to know what toiletries need to be packed. Here at Wander Camp, we offer off-grid bathrooms which include RV flush style toilets, push sinks and pull lever showers. We will provide toilet paper, hand soap and paper towels, but all other toiletries you’ll need to pack-in.
- Toothpaste & toothbrushes
- Deoderant
- Face wash
- Soap, shampoo and conditioner
- Chapstick
- Dry shampoo and body wipes – have an early morning or a late night and not up for waiting on the shower, these are great alternatives for a quick clean-up!
- Hand sanitizer – is a great basic to keep on-hand for your daily adventure and even at camp, so you don’t have to wait on a bathroom to open up just to wash your hands.
OTHER
These are a few other miscellaneous items you might want to pack for your upcoming trip.
- Hammocks & blankets, spread out and enjoy the camp.
- Games – depending on your location, you might have a few games available to check-out at reception, but if you have a favorite, bring it along! Lifetime memories can be created through simple, but fun activities like playing cards around the campfire.
- Emergency kit – think duct tape, first aid kit, baby wipes, paper towels, toilet paper, flashlight or a lantern. It’s important to be prepared for everything when you are spending time outside and adventuring. Make sure to have supplies that can treat minor injuries or help eliminate any discomfort that may occur.
- Camera and binoculars – whether you’re at camp or out on your daily hike, you’re going to have access to incredible views and you’re going to want to capture them! Don’t forget your case, extra memory cards, chargers. You will not want to miss the opportunity to capture your time in nature. Check out Wander Camp’s photo gallery for a bit of inspiration!
Whether you’ve already planned a glamping trip or you’re still looking for a place, Wander Camp is waiting for you! Rustic glamping is a budget-friendly accommodations option where you can enjoy gorgeous views, be in close proximity to National Parks and still enjoy the comforts of home. Check out our current locations and begin planning your next adventure!
Post written by: Lindsey Marx & the Wander Camp Team