In this article, I’m touching on boondocking without electricity. Boondocking without other hookups, such as water and sewer will be covered in later articles.
Camping has been around for hundreds of years and continues to evolve. In this day and age however, it seems that camping is catching on even faster than in previous generations. There are RV lots popping up everywhere selling everything associated with the camping industry, not to mention all the peripheral accessories such as stoves, heaters, survival gear, dry foods and the list goes on.
Most RV parks and camp sites offer electricity along with other hookups for the convenience of campers. There is nothing wrong with this as it’s good for families and beginners, as most people appreciate all the amenities they are used to at home. However, there are plenty of outdoors types who prefer roughing it – camping with no electricity or hookups of any type. If you happen to be in the category of those who enjoy camping off-grid, either alone or with friends, there are certain things that could come in handy.
The very basic thing all dry campers should know is how to start a fire. Not only will a fire be necessary for cooking food and heating water for coffee or hot chocolate and washing dishes, but it will also be a source of heat and light without electricity. Sure, you can carry matches (and you should). Just be sure that your matches are protected from getting wet or even damp as they will be no good if that happens. If you have buddies with you, it will be a good idea for them to carry matches as well. Starting a fire is one thing, but keeping it burning is another. If you’re backpacking, this could present a challenge in that some areas, such as BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Land prohibits one from gathering wood in any form from BLM Land for a fire. So you have to carry your own wood with you. Here’s a tip for starting a fire if your matches become useless.
Always keep a small amount of steel wool and a 9Volt battery in your gear. This takes up barely any space and the weight is negligible and you can start a fire anywhere anytime. Refer to this video for simple instructions:
Always keep a small amount of steel wool and a 9Volt battery in your gear. This takes up barely any space and the weight is negligible and you can start a fire anywhere anytime. Refer to this video for simple instructions:
Make sure to research the area where you plan on camping. Again, without electricity, you still should know some basic information about where you’re camping. Always tell a family member and or a friend or 2 where you plan to be in case of any emergency. Know where the nearest road is and how to direct someone to you if need be. Where is the nearest source of electricity and how far from the nearest town are you in case you need to go there for supplies or to a hospital.
Always carry a good flashlight and make sure the batteries are fresh. You haven’t seen dark until you get out into a forest or middle of a desert with no lights around for miles. It can be so dark you cannot see your hand in front of your face.
Are you carrying some type of entertainment with you? I don’t mean a portable TV or even a radio, but perhaps a deck of cards or a guitar or a good book or two. After a long day of hiking or fishing or some other such activity, I always returned to my van where I had set up camp. I had my dinner and was asleep shortly after cleaning up. However, there are times when the rains come and I can’t get out.
During those times, I found it very relaxing to break out a good book to while away the time.
Until next time…
