The fundamental idea for every camping excursion or hiking journey is the same – you put on your backpack, take your tent, and go to the campsite. However, not all camping activities are created equal.
There are many different types of camping and campsites, and each has its fair share of similarities and differences. Here we will go over some common types of camping and the qualities that remind them all together as “camping”.
1. Backpacking or Hiking
Backpacking is a type of camping that is becoming increasingly popular. It usually involves hiking from point to point, then setting up camp and cooking food. More easterly backpackers may take boats or ships from place to place instead of walking.
There are many different types of backpacking sites, including winter backpack trips with climbers and hikers. A lot of the trips depend on what country you are exploring or where you are coming from. For example, Australian’s often use camper trailers for their hikes – the same as what American’s would call an RV.
Different regions in North America have distinctly different landscapes, and they each require slightly different techniques to navigate them effectively.
2. Survivalist Camping
Survivalist camping is a type of camping that deals with general survivalism. This type of camping can be done in groups or by oneself. A person who camps like this typically will hike into the wilderness and set up their camp there.
Survivalist campers usually bring very few supplies, including food, water, shelter, and an emergency kit. Some people may refer to this type of camping as primitive camping because it requires you to protect yourself against the elements to survive.
3. Car Camping
Car Camping is a type of camping where you have a car with you, and you stay in a campground and set up your tent. This activity is primarily family-oriented, but anyone can do it.
Car camping typically involves drive-in campgrounds where you stay for at least one night. This type of camping is prevalent in Europe and is considered to be “glamping” or glamorous camping by some people.
4. Tent Camping
Tent camping is a straightforward form of camping. You bring a tent and some food, water, and sleeping gear. Then you set up camp at the campsite! A lot of people love to decorate their tents with drawings or banners. It’s also fun to talk to other campers because they might have different ideas about where to go for a hike or what to look out for on a particular trail.
Read more: How to Insulate a Tent for Winter Camping
5. RV and Van Camping
RV camping is a popular way to go camping. RV stands for Recreational Vehicle, and it is an appliance or trailer that you can live in and drive around the country. These vehicles are perfect for people who love to camp but don’t want to pack up their entire household to do so.
They are also great because they provide you with all the amenities of a home when you are out on the road. RV camping gives you access to some of the most beautiful natural spots on earth while still being able to step outside of your RV into some of the most beautiful destinations.
Van Camping is also very popular these days. The great thing about van camping is that it allows you to live off the grid. Van-campers are typically self-sufficient, meaning they carry all their necessities with them. They can explore remote wooded areas, beaches, or mountainsides without feeling lost or not knowing where to go next.
Van Camping also means less time hassles because there are no hotel bills to pay, and campsites are often free. Many people enjoy the freedom of being able to stop when they want, sleep where they want, and never be dependent on anyone else’s travel pace.
6. Adventure Camping
Adventure campers are often known for venturing into the backcountry without any assistance. They may use outdoor equipment, such as tents and hiking boots, to set up camp. This type of camping is best for people who are experienced at camping, know how to hike safely, and pack efficiently.
7. Winter Camping
Winter camping is a great way to get away from the busyness of life and spend quality time with your family in nature. Remember that winter camping requires proper preparation, such as appropriate outdoor clothing and gear, or you can find yourself in serious trouble. As long as you prepare right, winter campers will find that they enjoy experiencing the post-winter world.
The benefits of winter camping also come from sitting around a fire – it’s a chance to take a break from electronics and connect with family. With the sound of the crackling wood and snow falling outside, people may feel closer together than ever before. Winter camping is a great way to change up your routine for something new and exciting!
Read more: Best Reclining Camping Chairs
8. Themed Camping
One of the most popular types of camping is themed camping. These campsites allow people to escape from the busyness of their everyday lives and indulge in a new way of living. People can find a themed campsite for almost anything they want- from a “no technology” themed campground to a haunted campground, if you’re looking for something new and exciting, you’re sure to find it!
9. Bike Camping
Biking is a popular mode of transportation and a great way to explore the world. Biking has been embraced by many as a healthy, eco-friendly, and inexpensive way to travel. This type of camping is often referred to as bike camping. Some people even call it bikepacking.
Bike camping can be complicated or straightforward as you need it to be. You’ll just need a bike, some spare clothes that could get dirty, toiletries, and food. The journey begins by packing your belongings onto your bike, and off you go!
You can do many things while biking, including going off-road, going down hillsides, or taking a break at a scenic place for a picnic lunch. Whatever you decide to do on your bike adventure is up to you.
Read more: Best Bikepacking Bikes
10. Ultra-Light Backpacking
Backpacking can be challenging, especially when you are carrying around a heavy pack! Ultra-light backpacking teaches people how to lighten their load, and this often means leaving unnecessary items at home and only taking the essentials. One of the great things about ultralight backpacking is that it’s environmentally friendly too! With less people in one place, the less impact on the environment.
Read more: How to Camp With Your Cat
11. Glamping
Glamping is a combination of the words “glamorous” and “camping.” It’s typically defined as camping with accommodations for all types of people. Glampsites usually include services such as a restaurant, spa, pool, and other luxury amenities.
12. Overlanding
Overlanding is a new trend in travel that has been steadily growing. It’s a form of camping that is suitable for those who enjoy the outdoors and want to experience nature on their own time. They can carry all their supplies with them by car, truck, or RV. Overlanding provides travelers the opportunity to stay in remote locations without having to worry about anything else.
13. Reenactment Camping
Reenactment camping is about recreating some of our past memories. This can be accomplished by wearing uniforms, living in a recreated military camp, cooking food from the time period, and by participating in “skirmishes.” This type of camping is popular among history enthusiasts.
14. Work Camping
Work camping is a great way to stay active and get a break from your routine. Work campsites allow people to escape from the busyness of their everyday lives and indulge in a new way of living.
People can find a work campsite for almost anything they want- from a “no technology” themed campground to a haunted campground, if you’re looking for something new and exciting, you’re sure to find it!
Work campsites offer many services such as cooking, cleaning, construction, and artisanry. These sites offer services that might be hard to find while backpacking.
15. Canoe Camping
Canoe camping is a relatively new mode of camping. People who engage in canoeing often find themselves at peace with nature and have a heightened appreciation for our natural world.
This type of camping is great for those who want to disconnect from technology and they can’t just leave it at home or forget about it because you’ll need your phone or tablet to figure out where you’re going.
Canoecampsites are usually run by the conservation organization, the United States Forest Service, or a not-for-profit organization that helps preserve the local environment.
Final Thoughts
Preparing to write this article, I learned about different types of camping and campsites, such as glamping and work campsites. We also discussed the many benefits to these types of campgrounds like “no technology” themed campsite or an ultra-light backpacker who can leave unnecessary items at home for good! There are so many options out there; it’s hard not to find one you’ll love doing with your friends and family this winter season.