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10 Tips: How to Plan a Camping Trip
1. Choose your adventure
The first step in planning your camping trip is to decide what kind of adventure you want. Are you looking to hike in the mountains? Explore the attractions of cities? Kayak along Florida's intracoastal waterway?
The vacation you want will define where you stay, when you go, what you pack, and more. Check out our Adventure page to find the vacation that's right for you.
2. Pick your destination
Once you've decided on an adventure, it's time to pick a destination. Try a vacation on Cape Cod to explore the history of New England. Or head west to the vineyards of Paso Robles, California for a relaxing getaway filled with winery tours and coastal day trips.
Find a full list of Sun RV resorts across North America here.
3. Time of year/season
From fall camping to spring break escapes, you can camp any time of the year! If you're looking for a tropical escape, heading south in the winter might be a great option. If you prefer a northern retreat, summer is a better time to go.
Again, it comes back to the first of choosing your adventure. Think about what you want to do during your camping trip. Then decide which season and climate best pair with your desired adventure.
4. Cabin, tent, or RV?
Once you've picked your destination and time frame, you can decide how to stay. Many individuals love the comfort and mobility of RVs. Others enjoy sleeping under the stars in a tent for a more rustic experience.
If you're new to camping or don't have much gear, a vacation rental may be the right choice for you. Cabins, chalets, and cottages make it easy to vacation in comfort with all the furnishings you need.
Make sure you check with the RV resort or campground so you understand what comes with the rental and what you will need to bring. Items up for discussion could include linens and towels, cookware, plates, coffee maker, etc.
5. Book early
Camping is an American pastime and sites fill up quickly! Book early not only to ensure a spot at the RV resort or campground that you've chosen, but to make sure that you get your perfect campsite as well.
6. Create an activity itinerary
When deciding how to plan a camping trip, activities must be a top priority. To make life easier when you arrive, create an activity itinerary ahead of time. You don't have to plan things out to the minute, but block out days and evenings for specific activities. Plan with flexibility, as weather and other circumstances can cause plans to change.7. Make a list and check it twice
Not a list for presents, but a packing list! Creating a checklist is essential to ensuring that you bring everything you need. Your checklist should be based on your specific plans, but here are some tips for snowbirds and fall campers.
8. Plan your meals
You can save a lot of money by not eating out more than necessary. Plus, cooking while camping can be a fun bonding experience!
To make your experience as pleasant as possible, plan out your meals beforehand. You can even do some meal prepping to save even more time. Check out our collection of camping recipes to get started.
9. Turn the road trip into an adventure
Yes, a road trip can seem long and feel like it'll never end. But the best way to combat the road trip blues is to turn the trek into an adventure.
Map out the route ahead of time and find some attractions along the way. Stop, enjoy the sights, and spend a night in a different place than your destination. Remember, your vacation starts with the journey, and begins the moment you leave, so make the most of every moment.
10. Know how to set up your site
This might seem obvious, but it's vitally important. Before you arrive, know how to set up your site. Whether you're camping in a tent or RV, there are important things to know when assembling your temporary abode.
Here's a helpful guide for setting up a campsite.
Now that you know how to plan a camping trip, it's time to get started! From the sandy beaches of coastal Maryland to the desert flora of the Southwest, you'll find Sun RV Resorts from coast to coast.
Know someone who needs help planning a camping trip? Share this post on social media and help them out!
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