The joys of minimalist camping

How many times have you found yourself frustrated with all the packing and searching before going camping, only to end up not using half the things you brought? Then pack it all back to bring back home and unpack it again to store away. Not to mention all the cleaning. Camping suddenly doesn’t seem that exciting anymore.

But, fear not – there is a solution, and it goes by the name of minimalist camping. A minimalist camper knows that less time spent packing and unpacking means less stress.

While it may seem like minimalist camping requires careful planning and preparation, it is actually pretty simple, involves less effort and reduces the chance of feeling exhausted and overwhelmed with the logistics. The idea here is to only pack the essentials. Don’t try to imitate home comfort! After all, camping is supposed to be about enjoying nature, spending time together and appreciating the simplicity.

Or maybe you can even hop on a motorcycle! As space is limited in this scenario, you will have no option but to pack light and go minimalist. Motorcycle camping joins two beautiful things together – cruising around and enjoying nature to the fullest.

While motorcycle camping may be a great choice for couples, families should go with minimalist car camping. You may be tempted to fit a lot of things in your car, but try to resist. Just because you can bring that big set of folding chairs and two side tables, doesn’t mean you should. Follow our guide and get ready. Trust us, it can be done.

The minimalist family camping checklist

A minimalist camping list is a lot shorter than what you may be used to. It means you will not bring that huge pillow or half your kitchen supplies. Instead, try bringing items that have a dual purpose, such as one headlamp that also serves as a flashlight, a multi-tool (pocket knife), a spork – spoon on one end and fork on the other – and quick drying clothes. A small hatchet is always useful, and it can double as a hammer for the tent pegs.

Here is a checklist of minimalist camping gear to start with:

• water
• one water bottle or cup/mug per person
• first aid kit
• headlamp
• matches/lighter
• rag/towel
• one spoon/fork (spork) per person
• all-in-one soap (for hands, body, hair and face)
• toothbrushes and toothpaste
• sun protection
• simple (dried) food
• trash bags
• pocket knife.

These are the essentials to bring on any camping trip. The sleeping gear and clothes will depend on your destination, the season, and how many days you are staying.

10 tips to keep things simple

Now that we’ve covered the basics, here are some minimalist camping hacks to inspire you for the best and most effortless camping experience.

• Find info about the location

The first step is definitely to check the conditions and amenities of the location you are planning to visit. For example, you should always bring at least some water to every camping trip, but check whether the site provides potable water. Also check if there is a dishwashing station, electricity, toilets and whether campfire is permitted. That way you can bring exactly what you need instead of packing stuff “just in case”.

• Don’t overplan – leave some time for spontaneity

Don’t stress and try to foresee every possible scenario. Even if you forget to bring something, you will manage without it. It’s amazing how resourceful we can be when we have to improvise. Plus, situations like that can be fun and memorable – you will definitely remember that one time you forgot the bottle opener and found an innovative solution!

• Set limits on what you’re willing to pack and carry

Make a minimalist camping list and stick to it. This includes the shopping list, too – we often get carried away at the supermarket and end up buying too much snacks or a block of cheese that nobody wants to eat.

It is also important to be mindful of the weight of your backpack – everybody should be able to comfortably carry their backpack, so do a little trial run at home and see if you need to reorganise or ditch something heavy.

• Evaluate needs vs. wants

It’s easy to fall into the trap of overpacking. That’s why you should consider bringing less clothes and washing them at the site if that’s an option. If it’s a weekend trip, you really don’t need more that a change of underwear and a sweater or jacket for the evening. And go easy on the shoes – a waterproof pair to travel in and a pair of flip-flops is enough. Also, leave the lotions and potions in your bathroom. You can survive without them for a few days.

A good way to find out what you really need is to make a list of everything you bring to your next camping trip and then, when you get home, make a list of unused things. You will know what to leave at home next time.

• Leave your electronics at home

This is a big one. We all spend too much time in front of our screens, especially kids. Camping is a time to disconnect and nurture your soul. You really don’t need gadgets to entertain you – there is so much to explore around you.

Just like with electronics, you should go easy with other entertainment. Bring a pack of cards and a book if you like (only one!), but leave games and toys at home. You will find things to do, don’t worry.

• Leave no trace

The minimalist mindset is not just limited to what you bring to your camping trip, but it also includes what you leave behind. Respect the nature and other campers and do not leave any trash on the site. Every camping site has at least garbage bags, if not recycling bins. And the good news is: less things equals less clean-up! Forget single-use cutlery and paper cups. Take only memories, leave only footprints.

• Plan simple meals

Things like canned goods, nuts, energy bars, flatbread, fruits and veggies. You can prepare and cut the food at home or even cook it and just reheat at the site. Better camps will offer bars and restaurants so you don’t even have to worry about cooking at all.

• Rent equipment instead of buying it

Biking, kayaking and paddle boarding are all great camping activities, but the equipment takes up so much space. Good camps offer various activities and equipment for renting, so there is really no need to bring your own.

• Ditch the tent

If that is an option, maybe you can sleep in your car or van so you don’t need to worry about the tent and sleeping bags. Or, if the weather is really pleasant, sleep in your hammock. You can also choose a camp that offers huts or tents already set up – it makes life so much easier.

• Focus on experiences rather than things

Finally, remember that camping is a time for you and your family or friends to have a good time, do fun things together and relax. You don’t really need things to do that, just good company. Appreciate the simplicity and use the time to rewind and enjoy.

We hope this article inspires you to rethink your approach to camping and make minimalism your mantra for your next adventure. Here at Camping Village Šimuni you can choose from different kinds of accommodation and pitches to suit your taste and we provide everything for a carefree and comfortable camping experience. We dare you to pack only a small backpack and flip-flops – as minimalist as it gets! 

Bring your smile and a sunscreen and contact us for any questions or advice. See you in Šimuni!