Romantic Camping (for newer campers)
The moon, the stars, the quiet- camping must be innately romantic…think again. It takes work!
If you heard the Romantic Camping episode, you know that our experience with camping has not been synonymous with romance, but it has definitely strengthened our relationships. The togetherness of camping is nothing short of extraordinary. Time spent side by side, adversities met, and shared experiences have a way of bringing you closer as a couple. If you are looking for a way to connect or reconnect, camping can light that spark, but there are a few things you should consider before you book that romantic camping getaway.
What is your partner’s camping comfort level?
If your partner is new to camping, it’s best to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Start with car camping and focus on basic needs: food, water and shelter. Now strategize how you can meet these needs and amplify with small touches to make it an intimate and special experience for your partner.
We’ll soon be airing an episode with Terry Egge, a Minnesota philanthropy leader, who’s first camping experience included champagne and a small tv to watch a Twins game!
If your partner is comfortable with camping, think about what they have enjoyed in the past, now elaborate and take it up a notch.
What activities do you BOTH enjoy?
Camping is a time to find commonality. Don’t force an agenda. Be sure to offer options for outdoor activities you both enjoy. Agree on the day’s activities to avoid surprise. Have both partners restate the agreement (seriously, this is really important) to avoid someone doing something to appease the other person. Pack sunscreen, bug spray and don’t push too hard as sunburn, mosquito bites and complete exhaustion are also not compatible with camping courtship.
I almost left my husband after mountain biking on a much too difficult trail in Copper Mountain, Colorado. The next day I found myself biking the same trail again! It was almost our demise. Him reintroducing the idea and me appeasing him made me rageful. Not speaking up was my fault. This part of our trip was ruined because we didn't not communicate well. We were both to blame.
Make sure everyone is truly on board. We all feel closer when we feel heard.
What’s the weather forecast?
Mother nature is strong willed and unpredictable. Weather can sour romance in an instant if you aren’t prepared. Being tent bound can be fun, but more often it’s boring. Bring cards or games to entertain. The most important thing, however, is to know when to call it. There is no shame in heading home or to a hotel if someone isn’t happy. This act of kindness will do amazing things for your relationship like create trust and warm feelings of security.
Part of Lynn and I’s love for camping is the result of the Twins' understanding of our capacity for the unknown and discomfort. Packing out because of coyotes and calling it quits when the tent floods is a sign of love, not failure.
What are the hygiene needs of both parties?
Best to think about needs for hygiene ahead of time. If anyone requires amenities, be sure to book a campsite with both bathrooms and showers. When you book, confirm that the amenities will be available during your visit. Construction and time of year can remove campground amenities from your trip. Primitive campsites are called “primitive” because they lack amenities like running water, which means you will be using an outhouse. If your partner will be grossed out by the idea of using an outhouse and not showering, DO NOT book a primitive experience. Your chance for romance will be crushed (I promise).
A camping trip along the Appalachian Trail in 2017 showed us a very different side of camping. Hot, humid, very few people (probably because of the heat), campsites with few amenities and a region short on the lakes and streams I was accustomed to in the midwest. Water is key to my existence and a rinse is imperative to my mental health. After that trip my husband bought me a little solar bag shower- it changed my camping life (his too!).
Here’s a primer on how to meet basic needs while camping:
Shelter
-First, make campsite reservations: You can stay in a state, federal or private campgrounds, also check out the Airbnbs of camping, Hipcamp or Tentrr.
-Basic shelter needs:
Tent, footprint, stakes
Sleeping bags
Sleeping pads
Pillows (no need to buy camping pillows)
Headlamp or flashlight
Camp chairs
Tip: There may be a picnic table, but it will likely be immoveable. There is nothing worse than looking longingly at a fire from afar from the picnic table. Borrow or buy camp chairs if you are car camping. It will be worth it.
Water and other beverages
-Bring water or jugs for water. Check your campsite’s website for amenities.
-Some campsites do not permit alcohol. Check their website. Bring koozies and cups for discreet imbibing.
-If you’re a coffee or tea drinker, boiling water over the fire is easy. You’ll just need a metal pot. Grab Starbucks Via Packs for quick and easy coffee. If you want to get fancier, we love our Stanley French Press for camp coffee.
Food
-Your food strategy will determine how much more gear you need for your trip and is entirely too vast for this post. Again, think of your partner’s tastes and what they enjoy. If you're new to camping, this might not be the best time to make a five course camp meal, but lucky for you there are lots of ways to be creative with food.
Tip: Impress your partner with a camping charcuterie board or tapas. Simple food can go a long way. Alternatively, carryout from the nearest town is completely legit! Any food eaten under the stars next to a campfire is camp food and equally as magical.
Fire (the 4th basic need)
Bring matches or a lighter, but not your own wood. Buy wood at the campsite or in a nearby town. Bringing wood from one area to another brings with it tree killing insects and diseases. Don’t be the cause of an infestation, pay for firewood (bundles will run you $5-10 depending on where you are camping).
Tip: Buy wood before you get to your campsite. It’s great to arrive and start a fire while you’re setting up and getting your party started. Watch for our post on building a campfire (coming soon!).
For camping romance, plan, prepare, and communicate. Sounds pretty similar to creating romance anywhere...