There is nothing more peaceful than sitting around a campfire enjoying a night under the stars or snuggled up in a tent telling ghost stories. But, some of the most beautiful places to camp are only accessible by an All-Terrain Vehicle. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, preparing and packing for an ATV camping trip can be overwhelming. It’s not just the destination that counts, it’s also the equipment you choose to take (or don’t take). Here are a few tips on having an amazing camping trip by only taking what can fit on your ATV.
1. Plan in Advance
Camping with an ATV can pose a few more kinks than a normal camping trip. Because of this, it is important to plan a little more extensively. Have a map on hand so that you can easily tell where you are going and to help you get back on track should you lose your way. As you would get your car or SUV inspected before a long road trip, the same needs to be done for your ATV. And with any planned vacation, always have a back-up plan. No matter how hard you try to prepare, things happen!
2. Pack Smart:
Taking only your ATV means you will need to pack only the essential items. Prioritizing your packing list will make carrying a limited amount of gear and supplies much easier. So, what are the must-haves for an ATV camping trip?
- Safe equipment
- Sleeping bag
- Tent
- Clothing
- Weather specific gear
- Food
- Cooking equipment
- Tools
3. ATV Top-Shelf Rack:
The Top-Shelf can carry anything from boats to lumber to camping gear. With all of its accessories, you can go anywhere, do anything, and bring whatever you want with you. It is great for hauling lumber and supplies around your farm, carrying your camping gear to the top of the mountain, hauling kayaks from the hard to reach river banks, or anything else you can think of. Add-ons allow you to convert your ATV into a hunting blind, barbwire winder or boom wench. All this can be done while toting your gun, bow, or shovel with the secure bracket.
4. Pack Simple Meals:
Bring simple meals that can easily be cooked over a fire or that require no cooking or refrigeration such as freeze-dried meals, instant oatmeal, granola bars, and canned goods. All of these produce nothing to clean up after and they all cook up quickly with boiling water.
5. Focus on the Beauty:
There will be moments when you miss the conveniences of your usual camping equipment but, ignore the inconveniences and focus on the beauty of the scenery. To fully understand and embrace your surroundings, take time to get off your ATV and explore by foot.
Getting a group together on a camping trip with just an ATV can help build lasting memories. If done right, they can be a huge adventure and they may become your go-to camping style after a few practice runs. Above all else, when going camping, be aware of your surroundings and be safe!