Sport Conrad Camping Knigge

The rules of camping: Things you need to consider when sleeping outside

Perfect holidays do not involve 5-star hotels for you, but camping in the great outdoors does? We understand. Because after all, is there anything better than enjoying the sunset in front of your tent, listening to the sounds of nature and being awakened by the first rays of sun the next morning? Probably not. However, you need to consider a few things so you don’t unnecessarily disturb nature and wildlife as well as your fellow human beings. In our camping rulebook, we have therefore put together the most important rules and tips for your next outdoor adventure. 

 

Rules and tips for camping away from official campsites


The right spot

The first rule when choosing a camping spot is, of course, that you are allowed to camp there. You should absolutely avoid protected areas – otherwise, you are harming nature and also have to expect a high fee if you get caught. Obviously, you cannot camp on private grounds either. If you are not sure, you should always ask people living close by or ask the owner for permission. Basically, the laws vary from country to country, so you should always inform yourself in advance about the local rules. Alpine clubs or tourist offices can usually help.

In general, a wind-protected place is ideal. But if it is calm outside, you can also choose an open spot with a great view – preferably directed to the east side, so that you get awakened by the sun. The surface should be firm and dry. For more comfort, remove any bumps such as stones and branches before you pitch your tent. High grass is not recommended, as it negatively affects the ventilation of the tent. In addition, you should keep enough distance from areas with a risk of falling rocks, such as cliffs, and avoid the immediate proximity of waters. Because of the high humidity, it is not only colder and full of mosquitoes, but there is also a risk that the water level will rise sharply. Especially in the mountains, rivers can swell enormously due to melt water or rain showers in a very short time.

 

Avoid unnecessary noise and stick to silent hours

When you spend the night in the great outdoors you should avoid making any unnecessary noise. Especially at dusk wild animals are particularly active and can easily be disturbed and frightened. At the same time, you should always remember that your sounds are not muffled like in a house. For nearby residents or other campers, it can, therefore, be very disturbing when people are still talking and laughing loudly late at night. That’s why you should stick to silent hours after 10 pm, also when camping.

 

Rules and tips for camping: Outdoor kitchen and fire


Keep food away from animals

You should not leave leftovers or breakfast for the next day outside your tent. This attracts wild animals, and your food is gone faster than you might think. Depending on what you have with you, this is not only bad for you, but also for the animals that are eating your food. Therefore, you should either stow your food safely with you in the tent or high up on a tree and out of reach for animals.

 

The right way to deal with fire

Big open fires are generally not recommended. Too often fires break out – the flames usually get out of control much faster than initially thought. Especially in bush and forest areas you need to take extra care. Therefore, as to be expected, open fire is prohibited in many areas. Wherever it is allowed, you should still make sure in advance whether it is not too dry for a fire or whether it has not even been officially forbidden due to drought. If you don’t want to miss out on a hot meal and hot drinks, a small camping stove is often the best and safest option. 

→ Find out more about camping stoves and other equipment for your outdoor kitchen here.

 

Rules and tips for camping: Dogs and camping


Leave nothing behind but footprints

When you go camping, you should always pack enough garbage bags to take all your garbage with you when leaving. This way you are not only protecting the environment and animals but also leave the place in a suitable condition for other outdoor fans. By the way, you shouldn’t just leave toilet paper in the forest, but take it back home and dispose it there. If you go to the toilet outdoors, you should also keep a distance of at least 50m from any waters. You can either bury your remains or cover them with stones.

 

Camping with dogs

Of course, your dog needs to be part of your camping adventure as well. Compared to a night in a hotel, this is usually easier and less complicated, but there are still a few things to consider. If you are traveling for several days with your dog and want your dog to sleep with you in the tent, you should definitely practice in advance and get him used to it. If the dog stays outside overnight, it must be kept on a leash. This way you prevent him from hunting wild animals.

 

More Information:

Which sleeping bag ist the right one for me? Find out in our → Sleeping-Bag-Guide.

What is important for a Bivouac-Night? Find out in our → Bivouac-Guide.