Camping is a fun and relaxing way to disconnect from the world and enjoy the natural scene. Camping can be an adventure if done right. If you’re environmentally conscious, there are ways you can camp without having an impact on the environment.
Eco-friendly camping means that you’re camping in a way that doesn’t harm the environment and the ecosystem where you set up camp. The choices you make before, during, and after your camp should have minimal impact on the environment. Here are six tips for eco-friendly camping:
1. Eco-Friendly Camping Equipment
Before going camping, think about the equipment you’ll need and use during your camping trip. Make a list of all the camping equipment you’ll need and search for a store that has an eco-label program. There are online and physical stores that sell 100% recycled equipment. You can find eco-friendly tents, sleeping bags, recycled outdoor matting, reusable water bottles, etc.
Alternatively, you can borrow or rent camping equipment from friends and family. New equipment still has to be manufactured, which can come at a cost to the environment. Some camping gears are difficult to recycle. Therefore, borrowing or renting is an environmentally conscious way to camping. You can also purchase pre-owned equipment if you plan to camp regularly.
2. Choosing A Campsite
Choosing a campsite could take some time, but it’s worth it in the end. You need to consider a few things when choosing the right campsite. The best time to go camping is during the low season. Camping during the high season can put a strain on the environment. Also, choose an area where the ground is clear and flat to avoid the effort of having to level the ground.
Additionally, you want to avoid areas where there’s wildlife, especially during mating seasons. Another option is camping at a designated campsite. A designated campsite can be easy to make eco-friendly and sustainable for camping. Designated campsites have environmentally friendly disposal sites, camp areas that don’t disturb wildlife, and areas where you can cook in an eco- friendly way.
3. Travelling To The Campsite
Traveling long distances can produce carbon emissions, which are harmful to the environment. If you plan to camp in an area near your home, you should consider walking, hitchhiking, or cycling to your campsite. However, if you have to travel a long distance, you should consider hitchhiking or taking public transportation, like a bus or train.
If you are traveling with your family or group of friends, you should consider travelling to the campsite as a group. Taking multiple vehicles can have an impact on the environment. Consider using a mini-bus to transport everyone to the campsite.
4. Use Eco-Friendly Products
Use eco-friendly products to help the environment and preserve energy on your camping trip. There are a variety of shops and online stores that sell affordable eco-friendly products that you can use during your camping trip. Use metal plates and cups instead of plastic cutlery.
Essential products to have with you are eco-friendly sunscreen for hiking. You should also have eco-friendly cream to protect yourself from insects and mosquitoes. You can also get biodegradable toothpaste, detergent, soap, trash bags, and bamboo toilet paper.
5. Disposal Of Waste
During your camping trip, properly dispose of your waste in biodegradable trash bags. Discard xcess food and other waste items into a biodegradable trash bag so that animals do not eat them. If you don’t dispose of your waste correctly, animals could eat the waste items and get sick.
Remember, leave with your waste bags and dispose of them properly when you get home. However, if you’re camping at a designated campsite, use the recycle bins at the campsite to dispose of your waste items.
Additionally, some designated campsites have toilets where you can do your business. Make sure you bring toilet paper when camping. If there are no toilets near your campsite, you can dig a deep hole to fill in and bury your wastes. Don’t do it on the trail—dig your hole at least 200 feet away from any sources of water.
6. Dispose Of Water
When camping, you should always try to be as hygienic as possible. Wash your dishes with hot water and use biodegradable detergent. Regular dishwashing liquid has chemicals that could be harmful to sensitive ecosystems. You could also bring waterless wipes to clean yourself and dishes if water sources are limited.
Make sure you dispose of the water you use properly. If you’re allowed to discard water waste near your campsite, dump the dirty water away from sources of water. Alternatively, you can bring a container for disposing of water. When you get home, you can properly dispose of the water.
Bonus Tip: Emergency Eco-First Aid Kit
When camping outdoors, you want to disconnect from the world and enjoy the natural scene. However, you need to be prepared in cases of emergency. That’s why you should have a camp emergency kit. Your emergency kit can have essential first aid equipment and a solar phone charger.
Choose the best hybrid first aid kit. Many mini-2-in-1 first aid kits are suited for camping; most are compact and lightweight. You can use the solar charger to charge your phone just in case you have to call emergency services.
Conclusion
Camping is an adventure and a way to reconnect with nature. You can ensure that your trip is eco-friendly by making environmentally conscious choices. When camping, you should use eco- labeled camping equipment and products, choose a suitable campsite, and dispose of your waste correctly. Additionally, you should use traveling methods that are not harmful to the environment. Be prepared for any emergencies.
