So you want to get ‘Off the Grid’ but are not sure where to start. We’ve got you covered! From the outside looking in, planning your first camping experience can be a little overwhelming. To help you, we’re walking you through everything you’ll need to know for your first camping excursion! 

Packing List!

All excellent planning begins with a list. OTGs got you already with this one. We’ve created a guide for all you could possibly need for your trip. Download the Off the Grid packing list here. This list is what we use to get out and about.  Check out Hacks to Make You Love Camping to learn our little tricks that make things SO MUCH EASIER!

Clothing!

Whether you’re headed up to bear the 30-degree temperatures or headed to relax on the beach, what you’ll wear still will be influenced by your itinerary. First, outline an idea of what activities you’ll be doing; hiking, swimming, off roading, etc. Then, pack accordingly based on your plans and the weather combined. If you’re opting for colder temperatures try to avoid cotton fabric. Instead, layer wool or synthetic fabrics because they insulate heat more effectively. Pack clothes that suit off roading activities so you aren’t ruining your other things with dirt.  Additionally, for night time you’ll want long thermal pajamas to keep you warm, especially if you’re roof top tent camping. If you’re getting active out on the trails opt for looser-fitting hiking clothes so movement is comfortable. Don’t forget your hiking boots! 

Things to do!

There’s so much to do out on the trails. If you’re new to camping have an idea of what your crew will be doing ahead of time. Your activities will depend on your destination. If you’re headed someone warm and waterside, pack gear for swimming and sitting out by the lake or ocean. Plan out some hiking or bouldering excursions, bring supplies for smores and a fire at night, or even bring some outdoor games. Bocce ball or cornhole are our favorites. If you’re headed somewhere colder, pack gear for long hiking trips and sightseeing, or snow activities if your destination is the mountains. If you’ve got off road vehicles, spend some time exploring on those and pack your gear accordingly. The spring time is great for desert wild flower blooms. Grab your camera and capture mother earth’s natural beauty.

Meals!

A big factor in planning is meals. Meals take preparation because you’ll need to have all the details mapped out before you head out. Prep your food ahead of time to make meals easy on your trip. Cut up ingredients before you leave, use canned foods, opt for grilling, and pre-mix meals in Tupperware. Decide how you’ll be cooking your food as well. You can pre-prepare all your meals and pack them, or bring a camp stove, or grill. Don’t forget your cutlery! Pack up all your necessities including dishes, forks, napkins, cutting boards, serving spoons, etc. Using reusable tools and cutlery will reduce your waste.  

Water!

Plan out your water usage! Check if your campsite has water on site. Be aware of how much water you’ll need for cooking, washing dishes, and drinking. In addition, if you desire pack ice for your coolers. 

Coffee!

Last but possibly most importantly, bring coffee for those early morning adventures. Coffee out on the trails doesn’t have to be boring, we’ve shared our ways to do camp coffee like a pro. You can see all our ways to make camp coffee here. 

Wherever you’re headed, you are bound to love it out there Off the Grid. Now that we’ve got you prepped, don’t hesitate to plan your first exciting adventure. Head to our booking calendar to book your first excursion!