Need sustainable camping gear recommendations and some environmental camping tips for a lower carbon footprint? We’ve got you covered. From recyclable kitchen utensils to Leave No Trace principles, eco-friendly camping involves adventuring in the wild with the express intent of causing as little harm to the environment as possible. For a full breakdown of our top tips to put into practice on your next camping trip, read the article below.
Eco-Friendly Camping: Definition
Hiking in the great outdoors allows you to see wonderful sights and reconnect with nature on a primal level. However, if it wasn’t for the actions of park authorities and state rangers who fulfill their duty in outlining and enforcing measures meant to protect the environment, the charm and beauty of these natural reserves would not be as they are today.
To promote a more sustainable way of exploring the wilds, eco-friendly camping proposes a range of green solutions to preserve nature for future generations. In essence, eco-friendly camping puts respecting nature and everything it bestows upon us above all else.
What Are the Most Important Environmental Camping Tips to Follow?
As you probably imagine, there are many ways, small or large, that you can contribute to protecting the environment from damage or excessive and harmful exploitation. Take a look at our recommended environmental camping tips below.
Leave No Trace
The Leave No Trace movement shapes the foundation of all forms of sustainable camping. Its definition is neatly contained in the name itself – by leaving no trace, you aim to enjoy your time in nature to the fullest while leaving it in the exact pristine condition that you found it upon your arrival
In fact, chances are that the reason why the best camping sites are cherished by so many is precisely because the previous visitors did their best not to spoil it for others. So, in short, pay it forward and do your best to leave no trace.
Pack It In, Pack It Out
Another slogan you might frequently hear in the context of eco-friendly camping is “pack it in, pack it out.” This principle goes hand in hand with leaving no trace and involves abiding by the rule that whatever you bring to the campsite when you arrive, you take with you when your trip is over instead of simply leaving it there
This primarily refers to garbage in all forms. Some people, however, believe that food waste, such as banana peels, apple cores, and others, doesn’t count as garbage because they are naturally biodegradable. While technically true, packing it out still means not leaving anything behind, even if it feels like it belongs. If that sounds like hard work, consider only bringing lightweight hiking essentials to minimize your environmental impact.
Stay on Marked Trails
Respecting nature while hiking is essential, both for your safety and that of any wildlife you may encounter. Close run-ins with the local wildlife should generally be avoided. To that end, your best bet is to keep to the marked trails since off-roading could inadvertently disturb vegetation or encroach on the habitat of a territorial animal
Even when there is no imminent danger, camping on untested terrain could damage the environment around you if the ground isn’t solid. Plus, to even get there, you’d need to trample on the greenery and bushes, which would erode vegetation and cause a “faux trail” to develop, enticing others to follow in your footsteps.
When Possible, Borrow Instead of Buying
This tip may not be camping-specific, but it applies nonetheless. If you are not a frequent hiker and only set out on adventures semi-regularly, you probably don’t need to replace your gear every year or even every couple of years.
Similarly, when stocking up on essentials like hiking footwear, borrowing from a friend, a second-hand supplier, or a marketplace can be a viable option.
Use Biodegradable & Sustainable Camping Gear
To further lower your footprint while camping, opt for gear and utensils that don’t pollute the environment. For example, camp cooking equipment made out of bamboo or sturdy material is the perfect choice – cheap, durable, and requires little resources to produce. The same goes for your camp furniture, like seats or tables – jute or hemp are fantastic options for sustainable camping gear.
Prioritize Fire Safety
Only build your fires in places where you’re sure nothing flammable could catch fire and spiral out of control. When headed to an organized campsite, you’ll likely find designated fire pits, but in the backcountry, you’ll need to know how to set up a campsite without creating a fire hazard.
The Takeaway
Eco-friendly camping doesn’t require untenable sacrifices. By resolutely implementing these simple yet effective tips, you can significantly reduce the impact your actions have on nature reserves and parks you visit. So, next time you head out, remember to Leave No Trace!
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