The Pros and Cons of Camping

The Pros and Cons of Camping

Camping has always been a popular holiday option for families. It’s cheap and cheerful and can provide lasting memories of good times shared together.

In these COVID times, camping is enjoying a resurgence. Travelling overseas is no longer viable, and due to the risk of lockdowns, many people are choosing to stay within their own state boundaries.

Staying closer to home however doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a relaxing holiday, with camping a great COVID safe option to help you disconnect and unwind. But is camping for you? It is worth considering the pros and cons of camping.

What’s so Great about Camping?!

• Affordable holidays – you can camp in national parks or in caravan parks for under $10 per person per night.
• Great for kids of all ages, and gets them away from screens (TV, computer, phone).
• Lose yourself in nature – hear the crashing of the waves, see sunlight dappled through the trees, enjoy breath-taking mountain views.
• Reduces stress and changes perspective; simplicity is good for the soul.
• Creates positive memories such as toasting marshmallows over a campfire, singing and telling stories.
• Enjoy quality time together playing board games, cards, charades.
• Meet other campers and make new friends.
• Makes you appreciate the amenities and ease of living at home!
• There are many different types of camping, from swags or tents to camper trailers, glamping, caravans and RVs.
• You can buy everything you need to be off-grid and have the freedom to go anywhere and still enjoy your creature comforts, once you have a portable loo, fridge and portable hot water system.
• If it’s your first time, see if you can borrow or hire equipment. And go with experienced campers – they will have tips and tricks to help you. 

The Cons of Camping

• Setting yourself up with necessary equipment can be expensive, especially for camping in cold climates.
• Camping gear is bulky, so a roomy car is recommended. You may also need a trailer or roof rack to fit it all in.
• Camping requires considerable time and effort to plan, prepare and pack.
• It’s more of a challenge to prepare healthy meals due to lack of refrigeration and space.
• Difficult with babies and toddlers. More equipment is needed, they need constant supervision, and crying may annoy other campers.
• Tents and equipment may need cleaning afterwards if packed up while damp.
• You are at the mercy of the elements including rain, wind, hail, storms, cyclones, dust storms and snow.
• You’ll need to book in advance especially in beachside locations and at peak times.
• Campgrounds can be very crowded and noisy (so much for getting away from it all!).
• Potential visits from animals, wildlife and insects such as possums, bandicoots, snakes, lizards, flies, mozzies and sandflies.

So, do the benefits outweigh the disadvantages? Only you can answer that!

Camping is not for everyone, but if you never go, you will never know. You just may discover a love of camping that lasts the rest of your life – and even if it turns out to be a disaster at least you’ll have a great story to add to your family folklore!

Featured photo by Tegan Mierle on Unsplash