OK, let’s not kid ourselves: camping is great. You have fresh air, no emails (for the most part) and that strange satisfaction of consuming burnt marshmallows under the stars. But let’s be real, too — nature lacks Wi-Fi, seat belts and room service. So whether you’re entering the woods, desert, mountains or just a snug campground this summer and beyond, safety is an item that needs to be taken with you.
Here’s how to get your thrills without transforming into a cautionary tale on a ranger’s clipboard.
1. Notify Someone You Are Going … and When You Will Return
First rule of the great outdoors: not to go missing in action. Here are a few basics to text your friend or your mom (yes, we’re serious) about before you go:
Where are you camping? Who do you come back with
If one of you takes a wrong turn, they’ll know where to send the search party (or at least if you’ve lost signal and gone full forest hermit).
2. Carry a First Aid Kit —Nature Has Thorns We shouldn’t have to remind you that the woods are filled with mysterious scraggly bushes and unruly uncultivated lands.
Your camping BFF is a well-appointed first aid kit. Include:
Band-aids (for the blister you will have), Antiseptic wipes (dirt and cuts never end well), Painkillers (hammock brings back pain), Allergy meds, if things sting or bloom
Pro tip:Not just the pack, know how to use it. A bandage won’t do you any good if it’s still in the plastic while you’re Google “how to stop bleeding” with 3% battery.
3. Fires Are Fun … Until They’re Not
Campfires are magical. They also have a tendency to transform into unmagical wildfires when you don’t exercise caution. Here’s how to keep it cozy, not crispy:
Make fires only in established fire rings or fireplaces. Never abandon the fire (fires are like toddlers: they will find mischief to get into). Store water or a shovel within reach. Always put the fire out completely before you go to bed or leave home. Also, look for local fire bans. No-one wants to be that camper who burnt down an entire forest.
4. Show Respect for the Wildlife – You Are In their Yard
Now look, it’s cool to see a bear or a moose. Getting too close? Not so much.
You are an experienced outdoor cook, and you perfectly know how to keep your food safe (hello, bearboxes!). Never feed animals — yes, even the “cute” ones. Keep a safe distance even if they look chill. Understand, beforehand (that is, before you get your car stuck or yourself stranded and can’t Google) what to do if you encounter wildlife.
Nature’s not a zoo. Give animals some space and respect, and they’ll (generally) give it back.
5. Weather Happens—Be Ready
You learn one thing quickly when you are camping: the weather doesn’t give a rip about your plans. Look at the forecast before leaving. Bring layers — it will be colder at night than you think. Do not camp in low areas that could flood. If you hear thunder, forget the “vibes” and find shelter.
Pro tip: Waterproof everything. Even your sense of humor.
6. Stay on the Trail, Explorer
Yes, Aroooo! We know you feel like Indiana Jones when you’re going off-trail. But also? It also makes it much, much easier to get lost in or mess up delicate ecosystems.
Stay on designated trails and in campsites. You’ll be more secure, and nature will thank you for not squishing all over its mossy parts.
7. Water: Consume It, But Do Not Believe in It
It’s important to stay hydrated. But don’t just scoop up some water from a stream and call it good. That “crystal clear” mountain spring could be a bacteria bash. Bring plenty of water. Filter, boil or otherwise treat any water you come across. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to begin drinking.
Thirst + altitude = zero fun.
8. Map > Apps (When There’s No Signal)
Cell signal in the wild? Don’t count on it. Bring:
A paper map, A compass, Some basic knowledge of how to use these.
Bonus points if you can read topography. Twofer if you don’t squabble with your hiking partner about which direction is north.
Final Words: Nature’s Awesome. Don’t Be Dumb.
Campings a reconnection with the outside world, beyond screens and to-do lists. But a soupçon of common sense can go a long way. Pack wisely, respect nature and know your limits. The aim should be to come home with stories — not injuries.
Stay safe, stay wild and don’t forget the marshmallows.