Camping

What is it?

The practice of camping takes place outdoors, where people leave their homes either individually or in a group to spend time outdoors, usually taking some sort of temporary accommodation such as a tent or a caravan with them. Camping evolved from the practical means of finding shelter while travelling to the more recreational pastime that it is today, with people often travelling great distances to camp in areas of natural beauty. 

What does it involve?

Camping can involve many extra aspects, but the core of the activity involves temporarily leaving home to spend time outdoors. You can go camping as both part of a group or by yourself, and many people take the opportunity to watch animals in their natural habitats or to practice sports in open areas not necessarily available to them in their home town. 

Why do it and what are the benefits?

Going camping is a great way of understand more about how the world works at a more natural level, and spending time away from electricity and artificial light actually helps you to appreciate them more. Camping with a group is an excellent team bonding experience, as you usually have to build and run your camp by yourselves; participating in a shared event will only strengthen relationships. 

What equipment do we need?

This entirely depends on whether you go camping with a camping provider (there are permanent camps you can visit) or by yourselves. If the responsibility for the trip falls to you, then you will need to provide all the basic camping equipment such as tents, sleeping bags and food. You must research what is needed thoroughly and ensure you have all the correct safety equipment, plus enough staff to supervise everybody!

Who is it suitable for?

People of all ages can go camping! There are no specific limits, but you should bear in mind the specific needs of your group - the very young and the very old may not be the best participants for a camping trip. 

Costs?

This will depend of whether you attend an established camp or build your own. Hiring/buying camping apparatus could run quite expensive with large groups, but if you already have the equipment needed then the trip could be relatively cheap.

Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)

Anybody with an unstable medical condition should exercise caution going camping - you can end up with no phone signal/road access and therefore no medical help should a situation arise. 

How do we include?

Depending on the needs of your group, camping should be a relatively easy venture to include everybody in as it doesn't require too much complex activity. However, if you are camping on uneven terrain those with physical disabilities may find it hard to move around - make sure to take this into account!

Doing it abroad?

Camping in a foreign country is a great way to really appreciate some of the stunning natural beauty you can find abroad. However, you must familiarise yourself with local emergency services just in case and choose your location wisely!