First and foremost, camping in the spring is very different from all the other seasons. Although it can be quite similar to summer, they are still very different when you look at all the details.
However, we are not talking about summer in this article, because this is my full guide to spring camping, to teach you everything you need to know for when you go on your next camping trip.
Should You Go Camping In Spring?
Yes you should, but you need to know a few things first, which is why I’ve put together this guide – to show you exactly what needs to be done so you can have a successful camping trip.
But before we get into it, I want to start off by saying that it is completely fine to go camping in the spring.
Traditional camping is probably what you are use to – which is in the summertime. However, you can go at ANY time of the year for that matter!
So don’t think you shouldn’t do it just because others don’t.
Reasons Why Spring Camping Is Still A Viable Option
- There are less people to share the campsite with, and ultimately less crowds – a big plus if you enjoy your alone time
- Everything is fresh, the air is crisp, all is bright, and the scent in the air is amazing
- You’ll be expected to pay less fees than if you went at the peak of summer. Not all public campsites will offer lower prices, so be sure to do your research first
- If there’s one big reason I love about spring camping, it’s that there are less bugs. I definitely know how to keep them away, it is just so much less stressful if I don’t have to worry about them altogether
- You won’t have to fight with the heat since it is JUST right. You’ll be able to go on your camping trip in the perfect temperature, AND you won’t have to climb out of your tent in the morning feeling sticky and sweaty!
Mistakes To Avoid
As you have probably already guessed by now, camping in spring isn’t exactly the same as in the summer.
However, they definitely have their comparisons, which is probably why so many campers go on their trip with the bare minimum while not even knowing what to expect.
Yes, the sun is shining, but that doesn’t mean it’s going to be hot 24/7, because when those temperatures dip at 2 in the morning, you’re going to wish you brought extra layers and a decent sleeping bag!
Stop doing this:
- Being prepared for the sun only and not having enough warm clothing
- Not doing good enough research to find cheaper campgrounds
- Using a sleeping bag that is best used for summer
- Not doing proper research on tents. Usually when a rainstorm passes through the night, campers are left to cut their trip short because their tent wasn’t strong or waterproof enough to combat the elements
How To Avoid These Mistakes
- ALWAYS bring extra layers, no matter what season you are camping in! Thunderstorms happen in the dead of summer too, so make sure you have enough clothing to keep you warm when the temperatures drop, and a rain jacket for when unexpected rain passes through
- If you are definitely wanting to go cheaper, then doing as much research as possible is the best way to go. Most of the time people will skimp over this step altogether and end up paying an arm and a leg because they didn’t want to travel as far. However, travelling far may save you a lot of money since you get a huge discount on camping fees
- Again, this is another massive mistake that people make. Temperatures DO drop, and they drop fast. You don’t want a sleeping bag that is going to make you freeze at 2 a.m. Proper research is key here, or check out this affordable sleeping bag instead
- You should be doing all the researching you can when looking for a tent. You and your family don’t deserve to wake up with your tent full of rain water, or one side of your tent completely flapping around in the wind, but you DO deserve to have a successful camping trip after being hibernated in the winter for so long. This tent from Coleman performs like a charm!
Check All Your Gear Before You Go
If there’s one big mistake I’ve been constantly doing over the years, it’s that I never double-check my equipment.
We all do it, we all rush to go on our vacation that we so-deserve.
But we are going CAMPING, meaning we need to slow down from the fast lane.
You are not rushing to your day job, you are getting away from it all so you can have time to relax in mother nature.
Do you want that to be ruined because you were too much in a hurry to even check if your stove and igniter was actually working?
Have you checked your tent for tears and rips yet? Give it a final pitch just to make sure it is in working order.
Furthermore, check if you have all the items you need before embarking on your journey.
Final Conclusion
If you’re looking to have a successful camping trip, you need to know the ins and outs, and that is exactly what I’ve outlined in this article.
I hope you learned a thing or two!
To recap:
You should definitely be packing for the cold and not the warmth – because when those chilly nights kick in, you’ll thank me later when you’re snuggled up inside your sleeping bag.
Also, doing the good ol’ once-over on your equipment is better than doing none at all!
Thanks for reading my article.
Do you have any questions? Because I do 🙂
1. When’s your next camping trip?
2. Who are you going with? Are you more of a solo camper or family camper?
Good luck!
-Brandon
Camping Mastery
I’ve discovered a lot about the benefits of Spring camping over any other season while reading this article. The facts are definitely convincing. Thank you for sharing this valuable information!
No problems, Brittany. Thanks for your comment and I’m sure you will have the best time ever 🙂
I’ve never been camping before but this is good information. Once winter passes and we get that first taste of warm weather in spring, we’re ready to bust out the summer clothes. Great post in explaining to slow your roll
That’s good to hear. And yes, it is all about taking it slow. Camping is about relaxing and having fun while you live in the moment, not worrying about what’s going to happen when you get home or go to work!
Great article. I love camping when it’s a bit chillier. The air just smells cleaner and I tend to sleep better.
Your reasons to consider spring camping hits the nail on the head.
The fact that campsites are less crowded is what appeals to me.
Having less crowds is probably the main reason why people choose this over summer camping actually. But each to their own, so go whenever it suits you and your schedule, because everyone is different.
Hi Brandon.
Very useful tips for spring camping and camping in general. I’m always a little grumpy when my wife packs a lot of clothing, but in the end, I’m very thankful when the temperatures drop 🙂
Regarding the next camping trip, it will be as soon as the nights get a bit warmer and it will be in our yard with my little daughter 😀
Keep up the good work.
Marek
Good to hear.
At least someone knows how fast the temperatures can change 😛 And I like camping in the backyard as well.
I hope you have fun, and good luck 🙂