Camping ranks high as one of the preferred activities of eco-conscious people. Camping is a unique outdoor activity because not only does it give you a chance to live close to nature, it also gives you the opportunity to reduce the carbon footprint you leave after every vacation. However, if you’re not careful, you can do as much harm to the environment at a campsite as you could at a hotel. Here are some tips for an eco-friendly camping trip.
The most basic rule is to leave nothing behind. Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Waste nothing but time. The idea is that the grounds should remain the same as when you saw it. Anything you take with you should leave with you. Waste should be properly disposed in garbage bins at your campgrounds.
It is advisable to use soft-soled shoes to prevent or reduce damage to flora and fauna. Thick and sturdy hiking boots cause damage to the environment. You can use your heavy-duty hiking shoes if you’re out on a challenging trail. If you’re just staying at your campground, wear soft-soled shoes.
Most campers have disposable plates and utensils at the top of their packing list. Stay away from plastics and disposables to save money and reduce your waste. Pack your lightweight dishes and utensils instead. Many camping stores sell reusable items to cater to your every need.
If your campsite does not have garbage bins, take every piece of trash with you. Bring home every recyclable material. Don’t forget to bring trash bags with you. Throwing trash in your fire pit as you pack up is the easiest alternative for some campers. Burying or burning trash is a big mistake.
If you only go camping occasionally, borrow camping gear and tools from friends if possible. You can also rent gear from camping rental shops. It’s not necessary to buy every time. Not only does it save you money in the long run, it also keeps you from accumulating junk.
Cooking with fire you make yourself lends to a more authentic outdoor experience. Propane and electrical stoves may be more convenient but they’re not as much fun. Fire from fuel is not very environmentally friendly. Wood is accessible and easy to gather at a campsite. Save yourself the trouble of lugging a stove and stick to wood fire.
Use green camping equipment whenever possible. There are enough eco friendly options available in the market. What makes REI unique is their wide range of rei camping equipment. REI has a line of eco conscious gear and clothing. They have gear for every aspect of camping ranging from cooking, safety and outdoor gear.
Buy quality products for long-term use. High-quality and long-lasting equipment can make or break your camping trip. Don’t forget to read up on the best brands available in the market.
Support camping gear manufacturers that give importance to environmental stewardship. Eco-conscious companies are aware that every product they churn out makes an impact on the environment. Consumers dictate the products that are made based on their purchasing patterns. Go green and companies will follow suit.
REI is a company with an extensive line of rei camping equipment that also operates with an environment mindset. They’re working with members of the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) to launch the OIA Eco Working Group. This group seeks to improve the environmental impact of outdoor gear.
A camping trip is an ideal way to immerse oneself in nature. Just make sure that you make informed decisions that leave your surroundings intact for other campers to enjoy.