Scared of Camping? Comforting Words of Advice to Ease into it.
Are you scared of the prospect of spending the night in “the great outdoors?” It can be a scary place full of unknown factors, moderate isolation, and just a thin tent between you and the world. The lack of electricity or immediate technology can seem hard to wrap one’s head around. And yet, maybe because your significant other or friend urges you to give it a try, you’re willing to. But if you’re terrified of camping, I hope you’ll give it a try after you read this post.
How do you get over the Initial Fear of Camping?
It seems like it could be fun, but between your paranoia, scary news stories, and horror movies, you don’t know how to get over your fear of going camping.
Believe me, I understand. I wasn’t sure that I would enjoy being outside overnight, my first time camping, either. You see, my family isn’t very outdoorsy. I remember going on exactly one camping trip when I was a child – other than Girl Scout camps (when we slept in cozy cabins), that is.
This one camping trip my family and I went on was to a nearby campsite with all the amenities available that we could need. One night, we stayed in a cabin because it was raining really hard, but the next night we slept in the tents we had just bought a few days prior.
How I Ended up Getting Over my Fear of Camping
My brother wanted to give camping a try, but none of us were sure what to expect or if we’d enjoy the experience. Once I got over my initial fear of spending time in the great outdoors, I wanted to enjoy more of it. Although I didn’t end up camping again with my family, I did enjoy several backcountry camping trips with my friends.
A few of the general areas where people are terrified about camping:
-Basic facilities: showers, washrooms, etc
-Bears and other animals
-Wilderness anxiety
-Other people
-Uncomfortable sleeping arrangement
Suggestions for you if you’re Scared of Camping
Wildlife Encounters
It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about encountering wildlife while camping. Many of us share these concerns, and it’s natural to worry about potential encounters with bears, snakes, or insects. Your feelings are valid, and it’s important to acknowledge that these fears stem from a genuine desire to stay safe and protect yourself.
Remember, while these concerns are real, with proper preparation and awareness, you can still enjoy the beauty of nature. It’s okay to be cautious, and by taking appropriate precautions, you can create a safer camping experience for yourself and find peace of mind in the great outdoors. Keep these things in mind if you have a fear of camping related to wildlife encounters:
- Most animals don’t want to mess with you because you seem like a giant to them.
- Animals just want food. If you leave food smell all over your campsite, they will find it. Cook away from your campsite (about 30 feet or so if possible). Don’t store any food in your tent.
- There are very few poisonous insects or animals in the US/Canada. It will be very rare for you to see them ever.
- There are some ugly, large insects that come out at night, like cicadas, but they won’t hurt you.
Scary Sounds while Camping
The sounds you hear while camping will be different from those you normally hear back home, which can be seen as a good thing for many people. However, if you’re used to hearing the sounds of traffic, sirens from ambulances and fire trucks, and people talking loudly on the street, the quietness of your campsite while amplify any sounds that you would otherwise not even notice, like rustling leaves or perhaps people on trails walking from their campsites to the washroom.
Fear of Darkness
It’s understandable to feel uneasy about the dark or limited lighting while camping. The unfamiliar sounds and shadows can stir up feelings of vulnerability, which is a natural response to an unfamiliar environment. Remember, these emotions are valid, and you’re not alone. If you’re struggling with these fears, there are ways to cope and find comfort. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate these challenges.
- Enjoy the night. Don’t fear it. Embrace the dark sky and be grateful for the chance to see the stars away from the light pollution in and around cities.
- Find ways YOU can have fun and enjoy stuff without electricity. Bring a paper book, cards, a journal, and games. Don’t forget headlamps and lanterns!
- Use the opportunity to do some stargazing or try your hand at astrophotography.
Best Way to Sleep on the Ground when you’re scared of Camping
- Get a cheap air mattress for a comfy night’s sleep, and bring your own pillow and sheets from home. Even with a good sleeping bag, the sheets and pillow make it more comfortable, and their smell will help you relax.
- Take a shower if possible before you go to bed. Sleeping clean is much more comfortable than when you’re sweaty.
Essential Gear for a Successful First Camping Trip if You’re Scared of Camping
If you want to ease yourself into camping, try camping close to home in a drive-up campsite with a shower, washroom, and other facilities nearby. Some campsites even have laundry services and swimming pools! You can rough it as much or as little as you want. Remember, this is supposed to be a fun experience! I would encourage you to experience the joys of camping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the fear of camping called?
The fear of camping is generally referred to as “camping phobia” or “tent phobia.” While there isn’t a specific clinical term exclusively for the fear of camping, it can be considered a part of broader categories such as nyctophobia (fear of the dark), xenophobia (fear of the unknown or unfamiliar), or agrizoophobia (fear of wild animals). If the fear is intense, it might be helpful to speak with a mental health professional to address and manage these anxieties.
Is camping scary?
Camping can be a mix of excitement and apprehension, especially if you’re new to it. The idea of sleeping outdoors, away from the comforts of home, might appear a bit daunting at first. But with the right preparation, it can turn into a delightful and rejuvenating experience.
Why am I scared of tents?
Try a bigger tent, not a tiny one – claustrophobia is a bad thing. I suffer from this and hated camping in the middle of nowhere after a day of hiking, needing to sleep in a tiny but lightweight tent.
The rule of thumb is to take the rating of the tent and subtract 1 for the number of people it sleeps comfortably. If it’s a 3-person tent, then it’ll be fine for two people plus a daypack or two with gear and clothes.
Do you enjoy camping, or are you scared of camping?
Plan Your Canadian Adventure
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If you're visiting Canada from abroad, travel insurance is worth looking into. This platform helps you compare plans. (Not financial advice.)
