What do you do when you yearn to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? Plan a vacation in the woods, mountains, or beaches. You imagine camping under the stars with the cool breeze caressing your face gently. Such a therapeutic experience provides inner peace to the person. When talking of camping, you can go for tent camping, backpacking, boondocking, and many different types of camping. This guide covers all types of camping to choose from, along with their pros and cons. Here, you’ll learn what kind of camping suits you best!
Get on a virtual camping trip with us in different styles of camping styles without further ado!
1. Tent Camping
Tent camping is a great option for those who wish to spend their vacations away from home. It can be done on the mountain, beach, etc. since there are different types of tents so you can choose the kind you like. Furthermore, they come in various sizes, resolving the accommodation issue.
Additionally, tent camping is something that involves paying a fee for the site where you pitch the tent. Also, you get the facilities like electricity and a shared bathroom. Also, with tent camping, you get to see a beautiful landscape, a sky covered with stars and whatnot. This camping style can rejuvenate the inner you and encourage you to explore more of the world.
Pros
- You can meditate in the greenery.
- Explore the mother nature
- Affordable
Cons
- Prone to bad weather conditions
- Limited storage space
- Less comfort
Read More: Terra Nova Laser Compact 1 Tent Review
2. Backpacking
The debate on backpacking is never-ending. Many people deem it a way of camping, while others don’t. However, it’s the lightest and easiest way of camping. With a compact backpack, you can be in the mountains and walk on trails for weeks or months.
The best part about backpack camping is that you can carry a lighter tent to step up. Instead, you can hike comfortably, worry-free and pitch the tent at any spot available near the hiking track. Secondly, backpacking is most suitable for wanderers who love to explore the world’s beauty now and then.
Pros
- Minimal environmental impact
- Maximum nature exploration
- Freedom
Cons
- No network signals
- Limited amenities
- Safety concerns
3. Tarp
Tarp, also known as tarpaulin camping, is the best way to explore the wonders of nature while craving a break. It’s a basic type of camping, and offers a minimalist set-up and is super easy to carry. Many nature explorers love the tarp due to its most accessible pitching techniques. The cherry on top, if it’s set up well, can protect you from the rain and winds.
However, tarps can fly away if hit by a strong gust of wind. This is why, for tarp camping, it’s recommended to read the instruction guide that comes with it. The guide will help you follow the instructions on setting up the tarp. Even though spending a day in a tarp can be great fun, pitch it away from the water spot. It shouldn’t have a lake or sea near it, or a sudden storm can wash everything away. So, it’s better to be safe!
Pros
- Cost effective
- Connects you with nature
- Lightweight
Cons
- No privacy
- Exposure to wildlife
- Limited protection
4. Cave Camping
If they wake up, either run away or get ready to be attacked. Apart from this, wear skanky clothes to the cave for the stay and keep some spare clothes as well. Wear sturdy boots and keep a vessel for the pee; you can’t pollute the cave with it. All-in-all, camping in a cave lets you experience some unimaginable things. At the same time, it doesn’t come without risks. So, be prepared to tackle any mishap in the cave, and most importantly, stay with your group.
Many nature wanderers are going in the direction of cave camping. With time, it’s become a popular thing to do and can be the right type of camping. Cave camping is also a great idea and is ideal for people exploring mysterious places. Caves are colder, and no condensation occurs there, but any sudden danger can come the way. It’s said that caves are the home to bats- so walk or crawl carefully without waking up the little creatures.
Pros
- Adventurous
- Unique
- Natural
Cons
- Dark
- Damp
- Limited
Read More: MSR Freelite 1: Tent Review
5. Boondocking
You should mark boondocking atop the bucket list if you’re an adventurer. It’s a thrilling journey with a lot of risks on the way. Boondocking is a type of camping where you camp without access to facilities like bathrooms and electricity. This isn’t suitable for a novice camper and brings many dangers.
Furthermore, you don’t have to pay fees for pitching a tent somewhere. The good thing is you can set it up at any safe place. But before leaving the site, you must clean it without leaving any garbage. More so, there are specific rules for such camping, and flouting them can get you in trouble. Until then, happy camping!
Pros
- Freedom
- Remote
- Quiet
Cons
- No Amenities
- Limited Resources
- Isolation
6. Bivy
Some bivy come with poles, while others don’t. More so, your head remains outside the bivy facing the sky. It’s an uncomfortable camping style for beginners, but it’s not a big deal for adventurers. So, if you plan on carrying a bivy for camping, do that at your own risk! It’s good camping gear, but not suitable for the newbies.
If you’re a camping enthusiast, you must know about the bivy. However, if you’re new to this term, you’ll learn about it here in detail. Bivy camping is more like backpacking, and the gear is lightweight. Many hikers use them for night stays. A bivy resembles a sleeping bag you spread on the floor and slide in.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Intimate
Cons
- Cramped
- Limited space
- No Standing
7. Hammock
When you’re a kid, your mother would tie a clot to both ends below the bed and swing you to sleep. Hammock is something like that. It seems less like camping gear and more like a swing. However, it’s a modern camping style, and you can set it in a location with trees.
You only need to find the trees with a fine gap between them and tie both ends of the hammock with the stem of each tree. There, you get your wing ready; You can rest on it, feel the cool breeze caress your face gently, and experience the sky full of stars at night!
Pros
- Comfortable
- Versatile
- Elevated
Cons
- Cold (in winter)
- Bugs
- Requires Trees
8. Backyard Camping
Camping with kids could be fun, but it can become an effort if you’ve multiple kids. Anyway, if you want to introduce your kids to camping and see how they react to it, backyard camping is the right thing to do. You only need a little space for it. Pick a specific place in the backyard, pitch the tent, and put in all the necessary amenities.
For food, you can use a fire pit, if any. If there’s no fireplace in the backyard, go for a bar b q grill and enjoy a camping experience with kids from home. Doing so will be worth it and will become an unforgettable memory.
Pros
- Convenient
- Familiar
- Safe
Cons
- Less Adventurous
- Distractions
- No Wilderness Experience
9. Bikepacking and Bike Touring
Bike packing and bike touring are adventurous ways to explore the great outdoors on two wheels. It involves strapping lightweight gear onto your bike and embarking on off-road trails or rugged terrains. On the other hand, bike touring focuses on longer road journeys, often covering vast distances and connecting scenic routes or iconic landmarks.
Both activities provide unique opportunities for fitness, self-discovery, and a sense of accomplishment. Whether seeking solitude or bonding with fellow cyclists, these pursuits offer unforgettable experiences.
Pros
- Active
- Scenic
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- Limited Storage
- Physical Effort
- Weather Dependence
10. Overlanding
Overlanding is the ultimate fusion of off-road exploration and self-reliance. Adventurers traverse landscapes in rugged vehicles, including deserts, mountains, and forests, seeking remoteness and untouched beauty. The journey often takes days, weeks, or even months, and participants must be prepared for any challenge.
Over landers camp in vehicles or set up ground tents. They foster a deep connection with nature and the thrill of conquering uncharted territories. Beyond the adventure, Overlanding cultivates a profound appreciation for simplicity, resourcefulness, and the wonder of the natural world.
Pros
- Expedition
- Versatile
- Off-road
Cons
- Expensive
- Fuel Consumption
- Maintenance
11. Rooftop Tent Camping
Rooftop tent camping elevates the camping experience quite literally. These tents are mounted on vehicles, instantly transforming them into cozy mobile shelters. Setting up camp is a breeze as the tent unfolds atop the car roof, providing a safe and comfortable haven at any scenic spot.
Rooftop tent campers enjoy unparalleled views, enhanced security, and easy mobility. This camping style is for adventurers who seek comfort without compromising on the thrill of sleeping under the stars. From rugged terrains to serene landscapes, rooftop tent camping can be a great idea!
Pros
- Elevated
- Convenient
- Compact
Cons
- Installation
- Wind Resistance
- Vehicle Restrictions
12. Trailer Tent Camping
Trailer tent camping blends the comfort of a trailer with the freedom of camping. These compact trailers can be towed behind vehicles, unfolding into spacious tents at the campsite. This hybrid approach combines the convenience of a well-equipped trailer with the immersive experience of traditional camping.
It’s an excellent option for families and campers who desire a balance between comfort and outdoor authenticity. With ample storage and sleeping space, trailer tent camping provides a home away from home while encouraging the exploration of diverse camping destinations.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Spacious
- Convenient
Cons
- Towing
- Setup Time
- Limited Off-road Access
13. Winter Camping
Winter camping takes outdoor enthusiasts into a snow-covered wonderland. Braving the cold, campers experience nature in a serene and less crowded setting. Proper gear, insulation, and knowledge of cold-weather survival are crucial for a safe and enjoyable winter camping experience.
From snowshoeing through silent forests to gazing at starry skies against the icy backdrop, winter camping offers breathtaking scenery and a chance to reconnect with nature in its rawest form. With careful planning and a love for adventure, winter camping provides unique memories and a deeper appreciation for the resilience of life in the cold wilderness.
Pros
- Serene
- Snowscapes
- Fewer Crowds
Cons
- Cold
- Challenging
- Heavier Gear
14. Desert Glamping
Glamping, also known as glamorous camping, is a modern form of camping in the desert. It used to be without access to amenities, but with time things have changed. Luxurious yurts and tents are set up nearby attractive sites so you can experience the tranquility of mother nature.
While doing so, you can stay in the lavish yurts with access to every necessity of life. You can take the example of Desert Safari, where the visitors pay for a particular camping package and enjoy leisure activities. Now desert glamping makes sense to you.
Pros
- Luxurious
- Exotic
- Comfortable
Cons
- Hot
- Expensive
- Limited Authenticity
Conclusion
There you have it- the most common and modern camping styles for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go for any type of camping that you like and suits you the best. Each camping style in this guide differs from another. Some camping ways are for solo travelers, while others are for families. So, if you haven’t found an ideal camping style yet, re-read the guide and get on the camping journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
It involves setting up a tent in a park, campsite, beach, woods, or any preferred location, where you can spend several nights enjoying the outdoors.
Car camping, also known as “tent camping,” holds this distinction due to its cost-effectiveness, accessibility, and advantages. It requires a tent, and various tent options are available to cater to individual preferences and camping styles.
Experts typically recommend the “5 C’s of Survival” for packing essential equipment in any survival situation. These include cutting tools, combustion devices, shelter or cover, containers, and cordage. This approach is helpful when preparing Bug-Out Bags, Get-Home Bags, or any other survival kits required.
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