camper-boondocking-tips-for-beginners


Camper Boondocking Tips For Beginners

 

If you're just getting into camping life, but you've beed cooped up with this pandemic, you are probably good and ready to try boondocking in your RV or camper. If this will be your first time boondocking, don't worry: We've got some pointers for you! Boondocking, also known as dry camping, free camping, or wild camping, is a term used by seasoned camper enthusiasts that means RVing without access to water, electric, or sewer services. As you can imagine, the opportunity to completely disconnect and be one with nature while still in the comfort of your camper can be something of a draw for outdoor enthusiasts and those who enjoy getting away from it all. However, even in an camper, roughing it can be pretty...well, rough if you don't know what you're getting yourself into. That's why we thought we'd compile this list of tips from veteran campers to ensure that you have the best boondocking experience possible.

 

Meal Prep is Key

 

When you're without access to water and the only way to heat food is by using a propane stove, it's a good idea to plan ahead and prepare meals in advance. By putting together heat-and-serve ingredients ahead of time- or, better yet, making salads or other kinds of food that don't require cooking- you're giving yourself more time to relax and enjoy your time away. Think about it- prepping meals in advance not only reduces or eliminates trips to the store while you're boondocking but also cuts down on the number of dishes you have to do and keeps your trash output to a minimum.

 

Make Showers Optional

 

Well...maybe not "optional," but try seeing if you can shower every other day instead of daily. This will lessen your water consumption, leaving more in the tank so you don't unexpectedly run out. Optional showers not an option for you? Consider taking a "Navy shower"- that is, turning on the water long enough to get wet, turning it off to soap up and wash, and then turning it back on just for the rinse-off!

 

Re-Use Shower Water

 

Speaking of the shower, consider keeping a bucket in there to catch any excess water. You can re-use this runoff to flush the toilet, which not only reduces freshwater usage from the tank but also minimizes gray tank water. Win-win!

 

Lights Out

 

If it's daytime or you're not really using the lights, leave them off when the generator isn't running. This also goes for electrical items that you're currently not using. Staying mindful of this can help to conserve power for when you really do need it! 

 

Catch a Breeze

 

If you're boondocking in a warm climate, leave the windows of your camper open in the evening to cool it down naturally with breezy night air. Only use the A/C intermittently to reduce the drain on your generator and help with its fuel economy.

 

Get a Good Cell

 

Make sure you're in a spot that has sufficient cellular/Internet coverage ahead of time by using a coverage map from your cell phone service provider. Even if you plan to stay off the grid for a few days, it's good to have adequate cellular coverage in the event of an emergency.

 

Stay Covered for the Unexpected

 

Even though you carry auto insurance for your camper and a vehicle towing it, it's wise to look into additional coverage that can help in the event of a vehicle breakdown. If you are pulling a camper, realize that this puts a unique stress onto your vehicle like it has never had before. Even if it's a Ford, your engine, transmission, brakes will all go through quite a bit of stress. You should definitely look into a Ford extended car warranty that can cover any potential repairs or part replacement your vehicle may need over its lifetime. This way, if something happens while you're boondocking, or on your way to or from your campsite, you won't be hit with a huge bill and a bunch of headaches!

 

Keep a Lid on It

 

In order to prevent wild animals from scavenging your trash bins, make sure to store your trash securely inside your camper. Planning on grilling out? Be sure to bring all leftover food safely inside to ward off any unwanted visitors.

 

Stay in the Loop

 

Even if your plan is to get away from it all while you're boondocking, leave your GPS coordinates with at least one friend or family member so they know where you are. This will not only help you stay safe in the event of an emergency but will also give your loved ones peace of mind while you're gone.

 

Have Fun!

 

What's the point of boondocking if you're not there to have a good time? Making the most of your experience will make you more likely to want to repeat it. Make sure to take plenty of time to relax, enjoy nature, and make memories that will last for a lifetime.

 

Your first boondocking experience is surely going to be memorable. By following these tips, you can make sure it won't be memorable for the wrong reasons! Planning ahead, taking necessary precautions, and staying mindful of conservation of resources will get you on the road to becoming a seasoned camping boondocking enthusiast in no time!