I got a chance to go camping in Michigan over the holiday weekend, and Iām already wanting to go back. Being outdoors with friends and family, cooking food over an open fire, sāmores (lots of sāmores), drinks, and plenty of laughs around a cozy campfire in the crisp, fall-like air under the stars. I learned how to build a fire, make some deliciously strong campfire coffee and all about camping essentials. You might say this was my Camping 101 class.
If youāre not able to plan a camping excursion, how ābout a staycamption! Camping in your backyard can be equally as fun, and hey, you have your own shower! Here is a little backyard DIY camping listology to get you started.
LISTOLOGY #095: PUT A STAKE IN IT, IāM CAMPING HERE //
1) Put up a tent or make one yourself! It can be as simple as putting a piece of material over a rope and finding the perfect spot, whether its your backyard, patio, or rooftop.
2) Set up your campsite. Just because youāre in your backyard doesnāt mean you still canāt make it look authentic. Arrange your tent, seating, grilling area and have string lights or tiki torches nearby for a well lit campsite.
3) Grill all your food and yes, even breakfast! Did you know you can make an omelet with eggs scrambled in a plastic baggie in a pot of boiling water?! Yeah, me neither! Welcome to Camping 101.
4) Get plenty of snacks and have a cooler with all your favorite drinks. Pack it as if youāre actually going away. No sneaking into the kitchen!
5) Have a firepit or a DIY one using a giant metal tub. You need something to make those sāmores on! If you prefer a different route or ones for later, make sāmores pops! Just melt some chocolate on the stovetop, quickly dip your marshmellow into the melted chocolate and then roll it in crushed graham cracker. Mmmm!
6) Have outdoor activities set upā¦Playing bags, cards, stargazing, storytelling.
7) Bring plenty of blankets, pillows, sleeping bag, air mattress and lanterns for inside the tent.
8) Donāt forget the music! Perfect time to play that Fall playlist you just put together!
9) Create an outdoor seating area on your campsite using chairs, pillows or a hammock.
10) Take a break from your phone, TV, internet, etc and really connect with your friends and the outdoors. Its only for one night and youāll be so relaxed afterwards, it'll be worth it!