We all love camping, hiking, and exploring nature. Unlike a few decades ago when everyone was named the same – camper, today, you can find various names for different types of campers – from ultralight backpacking adventurers to glamping enthusiasts who love turning nature into something else.
The most common campers, though, are traditional and lightweight campers. There are many similarities between the two, but also big differences that make one different from the others. You might be used to one of the two, but do you feel you’re that type of camper?
Today’s camping experience can be tailored to the individual’s understanding of what the experience in nature should be and the main priorities of that person. If you feel like you might change something on your trips to the great outdoors, you’re probably right.
In this article, we talk about the main differences between the two, and we’ll try to discover what type of camper you are. If you’re a lightweight camper, you might want to make changes on your next trip. Read along and find out if there’s something to do.
Contents
What is lightweight camping, and how to pull it off?
Lightweight campers are people who love spending time in nature with nothing else but basic supplies. They will only carry what is essentially needed for that trip – such as water, food, and maybe a shirt to change if the weather is too hot.
Some practice extreme lightweight camping, also known as ultralight camping. They will carry almost nothing but a knife. They use all resources from nature. They know where springs of fresh drinking water are, and eat the fruits of the wild trees to stay full.
Of course, this takes a lot of experience. You must know how to survive this way, so if you are not ready for such a challenge, you might want to go with the more relaxed lightweight camping option or even switch to traditional. There’s also always a chance to go with something in-between and choose the amount of packing that fits your needs.
No rule says you must go out there with exactly these items and leave the others behind. No, you can spend time in nature the way you want, and based on your needs and choices, you can call that camping a particular type. However, based on other people’s experiences, you might realize that one fits better for you than others.
Lightweight campers will spend the night in a tiny tent that is compressed and attached to their backpack. They have limited resources and must plan their activities, but they feel so free in their movement and rarely get tired because of the little baggage they are carrying. If you feel this is for you, you might be the lightweight camping person.
What is traditional camping, and is it something you prefer?
Traditional camping is done in many different ways, and you can do it using a UTE, public transport for getting to nature, or going with a friend’s vehicle. In all of these options, you’re carrying more than a big backpack. This backpack is heavy, but you have everything inside.
The term classic camping started being used recently. Back in the day, it was only called camping, but due to new waves of camping, the term was separated. Campers have been doing this practice since the 19th century or the 1880s.
With the invention of motor vehicles, people regularly started driving to nature and spending time there, enjoying the sounds of the birds, the greenery, and the fresh air. Today, people from all around the world practice traditional camping as part of their weekend routines.
The best way to do traditional camping is by using your UTE. Many install aluminium UTE tool boxes over the rear bed and fill them with all the items needed for a comfortable trip. They will have anything from the crucial first-aid kit to a sleeping mattress placed inside the tent.
Of course, no rule says you must do something, but the essence of traditional camping and going by car is the fact that you can provide yourself with comfort and fun. This is why most people will also have a dining table, music speakers, hiking equipment, maybe some sports equipment, etc. Anything that makes them enjoy time spent in nature.
Conclusion
To choose between the two and understand what type is for you, the first thing to do is understand what kind of camping trip you’re dreaming of. If you love walking and enjoying nature without additional equipment, lightweight camping is for you, but if you enjoy turning the place into a comfortable place where you can practice things you enjoy, then you want the traditional camping option.
Both are acceptable, and there’s no right or wrong, but choosing the one that seems best is essential before going anywhere.
Last Updated on March 26, 2024
