The Ultimate Guide For Pop Up Camping Hacks
Camping can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be a bit challenging if you don't have the right gear or knowledge. Pop up camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to carry around a heavy tent, but it comes with its own set of unique challenges. That's why we've put together this list of pop up camping hacks to help you make the most of your next trip. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, these tips and tricks will help you stay comfortable, organized, and prepared.
What is a Pop Up Camper?
A pop up camper is a type of recreational vehicle that features a foldable frame, collapsible sides, and a canvas roof. When collapsed, a pop up camper is a compact, streamlined unit that can be easily towed by a wide range of vehicles. When expanded, the camper opens up to reveal a spacious living area with sleeping quarters, a kitchenette, and other amenities.
Benefits of a Pop Up Camper
One of the primary benefits of a pop up camper is its lightweight design. Unlike larger RVs, pop up campers are easy to tow and don't require a large, powerful vehicle to transport. This makes them an affordable option for budget-conscious campers who don't want to invest in a separate towing vehicle. Pop up campers are also versatile and can be used in a wide range of camping environments, from national parks to beachside campsites.
Pop Up Camper Design and Features
Pop up campers typically feature a lightweight, durable frame made of aluminum or steel. The frame is designed to be collapsible, allowing the camper to fold down to a compact size for easy towing and storage. The sides of the camper are made of weather-resistant canvas, which can be easily opened or closed depending on the weather and temperature. The roof of the camper is also made of canvas and can be raised or lowered using a crank system.
Air Opus Pop Up Camper Construction features
These are some of the construction features of a pop up camper from a popular:
Construction Materials/Features |
Description |
Walls |
Aluminium Dibond (two aluminium panels separated by Polyethylene core) |
Insulation |
20mm Polystyrene sheet between internal and external walls |
Floor |
10-ply waterproof sheeting with a dark-wood veneer topped and sealed with industrial strength vinyl flooring |
Frame |
Specially cast and welded aluminium, powder-coated for longevity |
Seals |
Water-tight finned rubber seals for ultimate protection from water ingress |
Gas springs |
Highly pressurized gas springs for easy set up by one person |
Bonding |
Combination of screws, aluminium rivets, and high strength bonding agent before being sealed with silicone |
Data on this vehicle gathered from: Opuscamper.us
Setting Up a Pop Up Camper
One of the biggest benefits of a pop up camper is its easy setup process. Unlike larger RVs, pop up campers can be set up in just a few minutes with minimal effort. To set up a pop up camper, simply unfold the frame, raise the roof, and extend the sides. Most pop up campers also come with amenities such as a built-in kitchenette and sleeping quarters, making them a convenient option for camping trips.
Pop Up Camping Hacks for Keeping Your Tent Clean and Tidy
Keeping your tent clean and tidy can be a challenge, especially when you're dealing with limited space and resources. Fortunately, there are some hacks that can help you keep your tent organized and free of clutter. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some pop-up camping hacks for keeping your tent clean and tidy.
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Use a shoe organizer
A shoe organizer is a great way to keep small items organized and off the floor of your tent. You can use it to store anything from toiletries to small kitchen utensils. Hang the shoe organizer on a nearby tree or on the inside of your tent.
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Bring a small broom and dustpan
Bringing a small broom and dustpan will allow you to sweep out any dirt and debris that accumulates in your tent. This is especially important if you're camping in an area with a lot of dust or dirt.
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Use storage bins
Storage bins are great for keeping larger items organized and off the ground. You can use them to store everything from clothes to food. Label each bin with its contents for easy access.
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Keep a wet wipe container handy
Wet wipes are awesome when it comes to cleaning up spills and messes. Keep a container of wet wipes handy so that you can quickly clean up any messes that occur.
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Bring a laundry bag
A laundry bag is a great way to keep your dirty clothes off the floor of your tent. You can also use it to store clean clothes, so that they don't get mixed up with dirty clothes.
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Use a hanging mesh bag for drying dishes
A hanging mesh bag will be able to keep your dishes dry after washing them. Simply hang the bag from a nearby tree and place your dishes inside.
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Use a collapsible trash can
Trash cans will be allow you to keep your campsite clean and tidy. Simply collapse the can when you're not using it, and expand it when it's time to throw away your trash.
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Bring a pop-up hamper
A pop-up hamper can keep your dirty clothes off the floor of your tent. It's also a great way to store other items, such as towels or blankets.
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Use a portable shower caddy
A portable shower caddy is able to keep your toiletries organized and off the ground. You can hang the caddy from a nearby tree or on the inside of your tent.
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Bring a small rug or mat
Bringing a small rug or mat can help keep dirt and debris from getting tracked into your tent. It's also a great way to add a little bit of comfort to your camping experience.
Pop Up Camping Hacks for Staying Connected
Staying connected can be important for safety, work, or just entertainment. However, the great outdoors can often make it difficult to stay connected. With these pop up camping hacks, you can ensure that you stay connected with Wi-Fi, power, and more during your next camping adventure.
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Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
A portable Wi-Fi hotspot can be a lifesaver when camping in areas with little to no signal. These devices can connect to cellular data networks and broadcast a Wi-Fi signal for all your devices to connect to. Some popular options include the Verizon Jetpack or the AT&T Velocity.
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Signal Booster
If you're camping in an area with spotty signal, a signal booster can help increase your cellular reception. These devices work by amplifying the signal from nearby towers, allowing you to make and receive calls, send texts, and browse the internet with ease.
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Solar-Powered Charger
When camping, it can be difficult to keep your devices charged. A solar-powered charger is an excellent solution for this problem. These chargers use solar panels to collect and store energy from the sun, allowing you to charge your devices without the need for a traditional power source.
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Power Bank
A power bank is a small, portable battery that can be used to charge your devices on the go. These devices are particularly useful when camping as they can be charged during the day using a solar-powered charger or other power source and used to charge your devices at night.
I personally own the ROMOSS 60000mAh High Capacity Power Bank and i have to say that it has been serving me well over the last couple of years. I am actually using it right now while writing this article. I use it to power my extra monitor when i write articles or work on certain projects.
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Portable Generator
A portable generator can be a great option for camping in areas with no electrical hookup. These devices run on gasoline or propane and can power anything from lights and small appliances to larger electronics like TVs and sound systems.
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Solar-Powered Lights
Solar-powered lights are an excellent way to light up your campsite without the need for batteries or an electrical hookup. These lights use solar panels to collect energy from the sun during the day and store it in an internal battery to be used at night.
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Bluetooth Speaker
A Bluetooth speaker is a great way to enjoy your favorite music or podcasts while camping. These devices can connect wirelessly to your phone or other devices, allowing you to enjoy your favorite content without the need for cords or wires.
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Car Inverter
If you're camping in a vehicle, a car inverter can be an excellent way to power your devices. These devices plug into your car's cigarette lighter and convert the DC power from your car battery into AC power, allowing you to charge your devices and power small appliances.
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Headlamp
A headlamp is a must-have for any camping trip. These devices allow you to keep your hands free while still having a source of light. Many models are rechargeable or use easily replaceable batteries, making them a convenient and practical choice.
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Smartwatch
With a smartwatch, you will be able to stay connected without the need for a phone. These devices can receive calls, texts, and other notifications, as well as track your fitness and activity levels. Many models are also water-resistant, making them a great choice for camping and other outdoor activities.
Staying Warm and Cozy While Pop Up Camping: Tips and Tricks
When the sun goes down and the temperature drops, staying warm and cozy becomes essential. Here are some tips and tricks to help you stay warm and comfortable while pop-up camping.
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Insulate your tent
Insulating your tent is the first step to staying warm while camping. You can insulate your tent by using a thermal blanket, an emergency blanket, or a layer of foam padding. You can also use a heavy-duty tarp or a piece of carpet as a ground cover to help insulate the floor of your tent.
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Use a good quality sleeping bag
A good quality sleeping bag is essential for staying warm and cozy while pop-up camping. A sleeping bag with a rating of 15 degrees Fahrenheit or lower is recommended for colder weather. Make sure your sleeping bag is well-insulated, and consider using a sleeping bag liner for added warmth.
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Dress in layers
Dressing in layers is an effective way to stay warm while camping. Layers allow you to adjust your clothing as the temperature changes throughout the day. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a fleece or wool layer for insulation, and finish with a waterproof outer layer to protect you from the elements.
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Use a portable heater
A portable heater is a great way to warm up your tent. You can use a propane or electric heater, but make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions and never leave a heater unattended.
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Build a campfire
Building a campfire is a classic way to stay warm while camping. Make sure you check the campground's rules and regulations before building a fire, and always put out the fire completely before leaving your campsite.
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Use a hot water bottle
A hot water bottle is a simple and effective way to keep warm at night. Boil water and fill a rubber or plastic bottle with hot water. Place the bottle inside your sleeping bag, and it will keep you warm for several hours.
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Stay active
Staying active during the day can help keep you warm at night. Take a hike, go for a bike ride, or do some stretching exercises to keep your blood flowing and your body warm.
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Eat warm, high-calorie foods
Eating warm, high-calorie foods can help keep you warm from the inside out. Consider bringing a camping stove to cook hot meals like soup, chili, or stew.
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Use a reflective blanket
A reflective blanket can help trap your body heat and keep you warm. You can wrap the blanket around your sleeping bag or use it as a ground cover under your tent.
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Stay dry
Staying dry is essential for staying warm while camping. Make sure you have waterproof clothing and a rain fly for your tent. If you get wet, change into dry clothes and dry off before getting into your sleeping bag.
Hacks/Tips to save energy
Energy is an essential resource when camping, and it can be challenging to save it. Therefore, in this section, we'll explore some tips and tricks to help you save energy while pop up camping.
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Use natural light: Instead of using electric lights during the day, open the curtains or shades in your pop-up camper to let natural light inside. This will help you save energy and also give you the benefits of natural light.
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Switch to LED lights: LED lights are a more energy-efficient option than traditional incandescent bulbs. They use less energy and last longer, making them perfect for camping trips. You can also consider using solar-powered lights to save even more energy.
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Invest in a solar panel: Solar panels can be a great way to generate electricity and save energy while camping. You can use them to charge your phone, power a portable refrigerator, or even power a small fan. Many companies offer portable solar panels that are lightweight, easy to set up, and can be stored in your pop-up camper.
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Turn off devices when not in use: It's essential to turn off devices when you're not using them. This can include your phone, tablet, laptop, and other electronics. You can also turn off lights when you're not in the room to save energy.
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Use a generator: If you need more power than what solar panels can provide, you can use a generator. However, generators can be noisy and may disturb the peace of the campsite. If you must use a generator, try to use it during the day when it's less likely to disturb others.
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Use a power bank: A power bank is a portable battery that you can use to charge your phone or other electronic devices. You can recharge the power bank during the day using solar panels or other charging methods and then use it to power your devices at night.
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Opt for propane appliances: Propane appliances are a great option when camping because they're more energy-efficient than electric appliances. You can use a propane stove to cook your meals, a propane heater to stay warm, and a propane refrigerator to keep your food cool.
Pop Up Camping Hacks For Storage
There are many pop up camping hacks for better storage that can help you make the most of your available space. Below will be a list of hacks you can try to help:
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Use Space-Saving Bags: Vacuum-sealed storage bags are a great way to reduce the amount of space your clothes and bedding take up. These bags allow you to compress your items, making them much smaller and easier to store.
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Install Additional Shelving: Most pop-up campers come with a limited amount of storage space, so installing additional shelves can help maximize storage capacity. Consider adding floating shelves or hanging organizers to store smaller items.
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Utilize the Space Under the Bed: The space under the bed in a pop-up camper is often unused. However, it can be a great place to store larger items, such as suitcases or camping gear. Consider purchasing a bed with built-in storage compartments, or install slide-out bins for easy access.
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Use Collapsible Items: Collapsible camping gear, such as tables, chairs, and dishware, can be a lifesaver when it comes to saving space. These items fold down and take up significantly less space than their full-size counterparts.
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Hang Items on Walls: Another great pop up camping hack for better storage is to hang items on the walls. Utilize hooks and hanging organizers to store items such as jackets, hats, and towels. This can help free up floor space and keep your camper organized.
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Use a Rolling Cart: A rolling cart can be a convenient way to store and transport items in your pop-up camper. Use it to store bulky items or as a makeshift pantry.
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Use Stackable Bins: Stackable plastic bins are an excellent way to organize items in your pop-up camper. They allow you to stack items vertically, which can help free up floor space.
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Invest in Space-Saving Furniture: Space-saving furniture, such as a table that can fold down when not in use, can be an excellent addition to your pop-up camper. These items are designed to take up minimal space and can be easily stored away when not in use.
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Place Garbage Bags on the Inside of Your Bag to Keep Items Dry
When you're out camping, keeping your gear dry can be a challenge. Even if you have a tent, you still need to be mindful of moisture and water getting inside. One way to prevent this from happening is by placing garbage bags on the inside of your bag to keep items dry.
Step by Step Guide:
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Choose the Right Size Garbage Bag: To ensure that your gear stays dry, you need to use a garbage bag that is large enough to fit your items. You can use a standard size garbage bag or opt for a larger one if you have a lot of gear.
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Place the Garbage Bag Inside Your Bag: Once you have your garbage bag, open it up and place it inside your backpack or duffel bag. Make sure that the bag is fully opened up and is positioned so that it covers the bottom and sides of the bag.
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Fill Your Bag with Gear: After you have placed the garbage bag inside your bag, you can start filling it with your gear. Be sure to pack your gear tightly and try to keep the weight evenly distributed throughout the bag.
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Seal the Garbage Bag: Once your bag is filled with gear, you can seal the garbage bag to ensure that everything stays dry. You can tie a knot at the top of the bag or use a twist tie to close it up.
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Pack the Rest of Your Gear: With the garbage bag in place, you can start packing the rest of your gear around it. Be sure to pack any items that need to stay dry on top of the garbage bag.
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Close Your Bag: Once you have all of your gear packed, you can close your bag and secure any straps or buckles. Your gear is now protected from moisture and water.
Benefits of Placing Garbage Bags on the Inside of Your Bag: |
|
Easy and Inexpensive |
- Readily available
- Can be purchased at any grocery store
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Lightweight |
Won't add significant weight to your gear |
Versatile |
Can protect a variety of gear |
Eco-friendly |
- Reusable multiple times
- Can be recycled after use
|
Image provided by: Forestriverinc.com
Conclusion
So there you have it, some clever hacks to make your pop-up camper camping experience even more enjoyable. With these tips, you'll be able to level up your camping game and impress your fellow campers with your resourcefulness. Now, go forth and enjoy the great outdoors, armed with the knowledge that you can make even a tiny camper feel like a luxurious home away from home. Happy camping!