Essential Questions for First-Time Campers

Camping is a great way to spend time together as a family and explore God’s creation up close. It can also be an intimidating thought for those who didn’t grow up camping or doubt if they can spend a night or two roughing it in the wild. If you’re a first-time camper, be sure to ask these 3 essential questions before you take your family to the campsite.

1. What will you eat?
Unless you plan to scrounge for insects, one of the oldest and surest food sources (see Leviticus 11:22), meal planning is one of the most important factors in how much you enjoy your camping experience. While many people enjoy the flexibility that a small propane stove provides, be sure to take advantage of your campfire as well. Of course, you could just stick to roasting hot dogs, but there is also a plethora of delicious and easy recipes you can make with a pie iron—and no, I’m not talking about dessert. For that, it’s okay to stick to these savory S’mores.

2. Where will you sleep?
If you don’t have the spirit of adventure of Theodore Roosevelt, who once awoke to five inches of snow when camping as president at Yosemite National Park, you’ll want to have a tent, complete with a tarp underneath and a rainfly. Inside the tent, you could splurge for sleeping on an air mattress or call it good with just a temperature-appropriate sleeping back. It all depends on your comfort level.

3. What supplies should you bring?
There’s often a challenge with camping in finding a balance between the minimalist approach that defines camping, while still having everything you need. Make sure to take some utensils to eat and have a way to clean any dishes you bring. You’ll also want to have some layered clothing options, while remembering that you won’t want to take your nicest shoes and clothes to the campground. Hand sanitizer and insect repellent are also good things to have on hand. 

For a comprehensive list, view this camping checklist from REI.