Tips for Loading Your Car for a Camping Trip
Camping trips are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while spending time with loved ones. You always want your trip to have as few complications as possible while still having fun. To ensure that you have everything you need and that your trip is organized, you will need to load your car in a specific way.
Pack Ahead of Time
It’s always a good idea to pack items before the day of the trip. The items you pack ahead of time should be items that you don’t plan on using until the trip, so any fishing equipment, clothes, or food you think to pack will help you prepare. Load your car for a camping trip at least three nights before leaving, so the day of the trip, you’ll only need to get dressed and double-check that you have everything.
Set Up Gear Before You Leave
If you have any gear that needs to be set up for the trip, such as a fishing rod or foldable chairs, you’ll want to set those up before leaving so you don’t waste time constructing them on the campsite. Setting up beforehand will also help with packing since you will know how much space will be necessary for this item.
Utilize the Roof Rack
Using roof racks is a great way to pack for any excursion when loading your car for a camping trip. You’ll want to put most of your bulkier items on the roof rack to leave space for more minor or moderate-sized things. Roof racks come with an assortment of different systems with a variety of straps and bars that you can use to keep your baggage secure.
Use Soft Packs
Softer items such as clothes, backpacks, duffel bags, and sleeping bags are easier to pack. Delicate items are usually lighter and easier to carry and maneuver. You can tightly pack multiple soft items when necessary to fit more luggage than metal tins or plastic storage containers.
Keep Heavy Gear Secure
Place heavier gear more towards the front when packing it in the trunk and near the middle when packing on the roof or the floor of the rear passenger seats. When the car stops, you don’t want your heavy gear to roll forward suddenly and crush something or nudge the vehicle, so keeping the equipment low and behind a seat will keep it secure. You also want to keep as much weight off the rear axle as possible to avoid any maintenance or speed trouble.
Preparedness is everything, especially when venturing into the outdoors. When you suitably pack your car, you will have a memorable trip without all the hassle.
