The word “camping” conjures up a slightly different image in everyone’s mind.
Some people might picture camping in an RV or van, some might imagine a tent in a lush forest, while others might envision primitive backpacking across treacherous terrain. The process of camping may seem similar across the board, but the finer details will change based on the experience you want – along with the camping packages you’ll need to make it work.
Regardless of what your outdoor adventure entails, the ability to enjoy the trip always comes down to equipment you bring. In this post, we want to break down all camping experiences into two segments: front country and back country.
From here, we’ll get into the basics of what you’ll need for each.
What is Front Country Camping?
Front country is by far the most common type of camping and is meant for the masses. Essentially, this is camping in established spots – like campsites in National/State parks, RV areas, and so on.
With front country camping, you’ll typically have amenities like:
- Check-in stations
- Dedicated campsites with numbers
- A place to park
- Picnic tables
- Running water (potable)
- Restrooms
- Fire pits
- Electricity hookups
- Dumping stations
- Tent pads
- General store
- Food storage boxes (to keep wildlife out)
Now, not all front country campgrounds will have these amenities. For instance, desert campgrounds - like Joshua Tree National Park - do not have running water – you have to bring it all yourself. Other places - like Yosemite – have just about everything from flush toilets and showers to electricity and general stores.
Be sure to read up on the campground’s amenities before you book a site or look at camping packages for the trip.
What is Backcountry Camping?
Backcountry camping is much more primitive than front country. When you go this route, all you have is what you take with you. There are no designated campsites, no parking spots, no restrooms, no electricity, and most importantly, no potable water. This type of camping generally encompasses high-level backpacking adventures.
To put it bluntly, relieving yourself on a backcountry camping trip involves digging a hole and squatting over it.
Backcountry camping is not for the faint of heart.
Not having the proper camping gear, knowledge, or outdoor skills for a backcountry trip can spell serious danger, and potentially death.
On the most basic level, you’ll need supplies for water purification – as well as a knowledge of where to find sources of fresh water. You’ll also need to bring your own food that is lightweight and easy to prepare – or be able to hunt for food.
Camping Packages for Front Country Adventures
Camping packages for a front country trip are created to cover all your bases for a comfortable adventure. You can expect the campground to provide basic amenities – potable water, sinks, toilets, trash/recycling, and possibly showers.
If you’re going to a more remote campground – like in a desert – you’re probably looking at pit toilets and trash/recycling as your only amenities, meaning your camping package will need to include extra water – and maybe a shower setup if you’re intent on staying clean.
For a basic front country trip, camping kits should include:
- 5-gallon jug of potable water (at least)
- Tent/rain cover
- Sleeping pad
- Sleeping bag
- Rain gear
- Chairs
- Propane stove
- Flashlights
- Plates
- Cups
- Utensils
- Skillet/pot
- Spatula
- Coffee setup
- Roasting sticks (for marshmallows)
- Paper towels/napkins
- Hand sanitizer
- Trash bags
These are just the core items for a front country camping package. To buy all this equipment, you’re looking at anywhere from $1,000 - $2,000+ - depending on the quality of the products and how many people the setup needs to accommodate.
In addition to spending all the money, you’ll need to have a decent sized place to store it all when it’s not in use. Moreover, you need to make sure it stays in good condition so it lasts.
If you choose to rent camping gear, you can get the complete, dialed in package for a fraction of the price.
At PitchKit, we provide fully-loaded camping packages for front country trips at just over $400 for a long weekend.
When the trip is over, you simply return all the equipment at the drop off point, then start planning your next adventure! No tedious unpacking at home, no need to deep clean all the equipment, no wasted space in the garage!
Camping Packages for Backcountry Adventures
Backcountry adventures call for more primitive camping packages. You will need to plan for no amenities whatsoever. In other words, plan on digging a hole when nature calls.
It’s easy to get carried away when packing for an outdoor adventure. There are a hefty handful of items you’ll need for a backcountry camping trip – but the trick is making sure it all fits in a backpack. Here is a basic list of the items you’ll need:
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Backpacking backpack (large enough for all your gear)
- Hiking boots
- Hiking clothes (with moisture-wicking gear to regulate core temperature)
- Rain gear
- Headlamp
- Pocket knife
- Toiletries
- Stove/fuel
- First aid kit
- Fire starter kit
- Food
- Cookware/utensils
- Water purifier
- Water container
- Multi tool
In a front country camping package, not having an item is usually just a minor inconvenience. On the other hand, not having an item on the list above for a backcountry trip can be the difference between life and death.
The cost to buy all this equipment can range anywhere from $500 - $5,000 – depending on how serious you are. Renting top quality camping packages can easily cut the price down by three-quarters or more!
Generally speaking, most campers who go on backcountry trips know what they are doing and have their own equipment. Renting this type of gear is ideal for first-timers who are going on a backcountry adventure with their experienced friend or guide.
What Are You Waiting for?
Prime camping season is around the corner.
When push comes to shove, enjoying a camping trip usually comes down to how prepared you are. Whether you’re planning a front country or backcountry adventure, you need to be sure you’ve got the right gear.
At PitchKit, we’ve got camping rental packages with everything you need for a comfortable front country excursion. Reach out to our knowledgeable team online and we’ll get you set up for the ultimate camping trip!