Pro Tips for Dispersed Camping: Gear, Safety, and Hacks for a Better Trip

Today, we’re diving into the essential gear you need for dispersed camping, a topic close to our hearts since it’s our preferred way to experience the great outdoors. If you'd like to listen to the episode, you can find it here.

Cara After a Night of Sleeping on the Cold Hard Ground

**1. Essential Sleeping Gear: Tent and Sleeping Bag

Our first piece of advice? Don’t underestimate the importance of a good sleeping setup. During a backpacking trip through the Grand Canyon, we prioritized bringing beer over sleeping mats—big mistake! We ended up spending the night freezing on cold, hard rocks. Trust us, whether you’re in a tent, car, or even just laying down an air mattress, prioritize comfort. Your body will thank you.

Our "Dispersed Kitchen"

**2. Cooking Essentials: Tables, Chairs, and Apparatuses

Camping isn’t complete without a good meal cooked under the open sky. For us, a small folding table and a couple of chairs are indispensable. We bring a range of cooking apparatuses, from a portable propane grill to a rocket stove. It all depends on the type of camping you’re doing. For longer trips, prepping your meals in advance—like pre-cutting vegetables—makes cooking much easier, especially when using less stable camping tables.

**3. First Aid Kit: Beyond the Basics

When it comes to a first aid kit, think beyond just band-aids and Neosporin. From personal experience, we’ve learned that ace bandages, heavy gauze, and a way to create a tourniquet are vital. A deep cut in the wilderness isn’t something to take lightly, so prepare for the unexpected. If you’ve had knee surgery like James, don’t forget your knee braces.

**4. Weather Preparedness: Tarps and Flexibility

One of our Camps Tarped and Ready for Weather!

Weather can be unpredictable, especially when you’re miles from civilization. A tarp can be a lifesaver when the forecast suddenly shifts. During our Yellowstone trip last year, we experienced an unexpected rainstorm that could have dampened our spirits, but thanks to our ponchos and umbrellas, we enjoyed the beauty of the park with fewer crowds around.

**5. Lighting: Red Lights and Firelight

When the sun sets, you might think you need a bright lantern, but we’ve found that dimmer lighting, like a simple fire or headgear with red lights, is much more comfortable and practical. White lights can blind animals and attract bugs, so give your eyes time to adjust to the dark and enjoy the starry sky.

**6. The Power of Preparation: Water, Fire Supplies, and Tools

When dispersed camping, preparation is key. Always bring plenty of water—not just for drinking, but for cleaning, cooking, and putting out fires. Don’t forget a handsaw and hatchet if you plan on collecting wood, and keep some matches or a lighter in every pack you own. There’s nothing worse than being ready to cook only to realize you can’t start a fire.

**7. Comfort Items: Extra Blankets and Baby Wipes

Especially in the driest climates, temperatures can swing dramatically from day to night. Extra blankets are a must to keep warm and comfortable. And baby wipes? We never leave home without them. They’re perfect for freshening up after a long day or for quick cleaning when water is scarce.

Dispersed camping offers a unique way to connect with nature but requires thoughtful preparation. From comfortable sleeping arrangements to essential first aid supplies, the right gear can make all the difference in your outdoor experience. We hope our personal anecdotes and tips help you on your next adventure.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram @kerouacscruising, and feel free to reach out to us with any questions or comments.

Thanks for Reading!

Happy camping!