What to Do After Setting Up Camp?
When you are backpacking, you typically hike most of the day until you reach camp. When you arrive at your campsite you typically do some of the following:
- Set up camp
- Cook dinner
- Wash up
- Switch into sleep clothes
- Store your odored items
But after you finish setting up camp what are you to do with the rest of your evening? I have gone on many backpacking trips where I failed to consider what to do with these few hours of the trip and I must say it can get quite boring. Below are some ideas for things to do after setting up camp.
Stretch Out:
Stretching out is a great way to cool down after a long day’s hike and offers many physical benefits, including reducing the risk of injury and speeding up recovery. The main muscle groups used when hiking include both of your legs, shoulders, and back, so it is a good idea to focus on these when stretching.
Pro tip: A Nalgene bottle is not only a great way to carry water but can also work as a great muscle roller to help get some nice deep stretching in when at camp. If you do not already own a Nalgene bottle, click here to check out prices on Amazon or head over to our backpacking gear blog!
Review Your Route For the Next Day's Hike:
When you are lounging around camp thinking of something to do, good use of your time would be to pull out your map and take a peek at what your next day has in store for you. I enjoy doing this because it allows me to mentally prepare for my next hike, whether it be a more leisurely day or a difficult one. Planning your next day of hiking is helpful to determine what areas would be good to stop and take a break, as well as where you can refill on water.
Read On Your Kindle:
It is nearing the end of your day. You are in your tent or hammock, but you are not yet ready to go to sleep. Reading on your Kindle is another excellent way to spend your time! I specify a Kindle is because it is, in my opinion, the best way to read when backpacking because they are light-weight, waterproof, easy to pack, has long battery life, and can hold thousands of books.
The problem I always have with bringing a classic paper book is that it was always very cumbersome to pack, and with all of the things in my bag, it was so easy to tear a page or get it wet or dirty. But either way, reading can be a great way to unwind from a long day and can even help you fall asleep. Check out prices on Amazon for Kindles here or our backpacking gear blog.
Reflect On Your Day With Journal Writing:
Backpacking in the wilderness is a fantastic experience filled with breathtaking sights, grueling climbs, and many emotions. At the end of a long day, I enjoy putting pen to paper and just reflecting on how my day was, what I saw what happened, and ideas that I had during my hike.
It is nice to be able to look back on unique experiences and to be able to reconnect with the person you were on your hike. All you need for this activity is a notebook and a pen, both of which take up little space in your pack.
Playing Cards:
A simple deck of cards can help you and your hiking buddies pass hours just by playing games. Here are some fun card games that my friends and I typically play when out on the trail. Here is a great site for card game ideas and rules for each game!
Star Gazing:
Being from Manhattan, one of my favorite things about hiking is looking at the constellations usually blocked by the big city lights. I am not much of an astronomy buff, but it does not take an astronomer to appreciate the beauty of a night sky.
Happy Trails!
I hope these tips help you guys make more memories on your future hikes comment below with your favorite things to do after setting up camp!
