Car camping might be a pursuit of leisure, but planning is still in order. Though this outdoors trip requires less preparation than backpacking, here are 10 important car camping tips to keep in mind before you hit the road.
More: 10 Essential Tips for Family Camping
Amp Up Your Water Supply
Many car camping destinations—particularly in the mountains or in the arid Southwest—don't have reliable water sources, which forces campers to supply whatever liquids they'll be using. Problem is, people often plan their water supply on how much they expect to drink, and overlook that water will also be required for cooking, cleaning and possibly bathing or first-aid.
A good rule of thumb is to take twice as much water as you think you'll need. Since a water shortage can have dire consequences, this is an area where I don't skimp. You'll have the luxury of not having to haul it in by foot, so there's no reason to hold back on the amount of water you pack.
More: 10 Tips for Clean Camping
Check Your First-Aid Kit
Packing a first-aid kit should be second nature to every camper, whether it's in the trunk of a car or tossed into a backpack. However, what might be less intuitive is checking the kit's contents prior to heading out for the woods. Bandages, salves and painkillers used on a previous outing might not have been replaced upon returning to civilization.
Depending on where you'll be camping, you may also want to pack extra sunscreen, lip balm and bug repellent to accommodate a region's specific conditions.
Keep Away From the Fuel
Outdoorsmen have been known to make some reckless decisions when agitated by the elements. But, you should never use your gasoline or any other fuel intended for your vehicle to help start a campfire. The risk is not worth the reward. If your car camping trip has pushed you to consider gasoline as a fire starter, it's probably best to just pack up and drive home.
Pack Tons of Food
As a rule, campers of all ages are happier if they're well fed, and in some cases, good cooking can actually be the highlight of a trip. Camping food staples like pasta, rice and cereal are cheap and can be bought in bulk, and you should plan for strong appetites.