How to prepare for your camping vacation

Camping is a very popular way to vacation! Whether you love glamping, car camping, back-country camping, canoe camping, winter camping or RV camping, the key to a great camping experience is preparation. Careful planning will ensure you have a safe holiday that goes off without a hitch so you can enjoy your whole camping experience!

Five tips for a great camping trip

Taking a break from your daily routine is good for body and soul! Preparation, safety and fun all add up to a great vacation! Here are five things to consider before you head out on your camping trip.

1. Decide on your vacation budget

Making a thorough budget is the essential first step. This will ensure that your anticipated getaway doesn’t turn into a panic attack.

Ideally, you decide how much you want to spend on your vacation and then break down the total by type of expense. Here are the main expenses for a typical vacation budget:

• Transportation to your destination
• Transportation during your trip
• Accommodations
• Food and drink
• Activities
• Souvenirs
• Clothing and equipment

And more! Adjust the list based on the type of camping you intend to do. But be careful! Make sure you add a 10% buffer for emergencies or spur-of-the moment purchases! You really can travel without burning a hole in your pocket. You just need to plan your spending and stay within budget with the help of our travel tips!

2. Update your auto and home insurance

Did you know that some types of RV are covered by your auto insurance? Enjoy tent camping? Then your home insurance would cover that! Your personal belongings (when temporarily outside your primary residence) are also covered by your home insurance. Contact your insurance agent to make sure your policies cover your needs. One simple phone call can save you from headaches if something unexpected happens!

Should you get travel insurance for your camping trip?

You won’t need additional coverage for a camping trip if you stay within the area covered by your home and auto insurance policies. Be aware that trip length and destination can have an impact, and $2,000,000 in coverage is recommended for trips to the U.S. to prevent hassles.

3. Choose your ideal destination

One of the biggest expenses for your camping holiday is your choice of destination. Choose it wisely!

Here are some factors to consider:

• Your budget
• The type of camping you enjoy
• The campground location
• The amenities and activities
• Online campsite reviews

4. Prepare for your trip

Packing your bags at the last minute is a surefire way to forget something important, like your hiking boots, your kids’ helmets, or even all the toothbrushes! So spend some time preparing for your trip before you head out. When you plan ahead, you won’t get caught having to spend money on things you forgot at home.

Get your vehicle ready for the big trip

Did you fill up the gas tank, change the oil and make any needed repairs to your vehicle? Make sure your vehicle is ready so you arrive safely at your destination. By the way, don’t forget to update and bring all the documents you’ll need for the trip, such as:

• Driver’s licence
• Health insurance card
• Passport
• Insurance documents
• Vehicle registration

5. Protect your home while you’re away

Can your home and belongings look after themselves while you’re gone? Sure, but it’s even better to make sure you’ve taken precautions so you can travel with peace of mind! Check out our safety tips so you’re prepared before you leave home.

Finally, before you set off on your adventure, make a list of the sites you really must see at your camping destination! By planning your camping vacation ahead of time, you'll have a wonderful family experience and return home relaxed and refreshed.