Spring has sprung here in North America, and with it comes dreams of a summer full of camping adventures. And while most people camp in campgrounds or RV parks, some of us prefer to get away from it all and camp with an off-road trailer.
Camping off-grid isn’t that much different from camping in an established campground. You just have to take a few extra steps to ensure you have everything you need to have a good time all by your lonesome in the wilderness.
If you’ve recently invested in an off-road trailer, or you’re considering buying one, check out this quick list of tips that will make your life much easier.
Table of Contents
- Benefits of Camping With an Off-Road Trailer
- What Exactly is an Off-Road Trailer?
- Must-Have Items to Camp with an Off-Road Trailer
- How to Camp With an Off-Road Trailer: Final Thoughts
Benefits of Camping With an Off-Road Trailer
Photo by mixetto via iStock
To camp with an off-road trailer enables you to go camping in areas that are not connected to electrical or water systems. It offers a unique and rewarding experience that can’t be found in more developed campgrounds or RV parks. While it may seem daunting to some, camping off-grid offers a multitude of benefits that make it an appealing option.
One of the primary benefits of camping off-grid is the sense of solitude and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With no internet connection or electricity, you’re able to fully immerse yourself in nature and disconnect from the distractions of the modern world. This can be incredibly refreshing and rejuvenating, allowing you to return to your daily life feeling refreshed and energized.
Photo by mixetto via iStock
Another benefit of camping off-grid is the sense of self-sufficiency that comes with it. Without access to modern amenities, you must rely on your own skills and resources to survive. This can include everything from gathering firewood and purifying water to cooking meals over an open flame. The sense of accomplishment that comes from successfully providing for oneself in the wilderness is incredibly satisfying and can help build confidence and self-reliance.
Photo by Popartic via iStock
Camping off-grid also allows you to fully appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature. Without the distractions of technology, you can fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the wilderness. You can observe wildlife in their natural habitat, witness breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, and stargaze under a blanket of stars.
Finally, camping off-grid is often more affordable than staying in a traditional campground or RV park. Many off-grid campsites are located on public lands and are free or have minimal fees. This can make camping more accessible if you’re on a tight budget and allow you to enjoy the benefits of camping without breaking the bank.
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What Exactly is an Off-Road Trailer?
As the name indicates, an off-road trailer is equipped to handle the difficulties of traveling off the pavement. Off-road trailers come in many shapes, sizes, and varieties but share some common features that make them off-road capable.
I’ll use the TrailStomper by SportsRig as a prime example of what an off-road trailer should have…
First, to camp with an off-road trailer, it should have a cargo rack where you can haul gear or place a rooftop tent. You can utilize the cargo rack on the TrailStomper to do either option, and with additional storage options on the main part of the trailer, you have plenty of space for all your gear, even if you occupy the cargo rack with a rooftop tent.
Second, an off-road trailer should have a heavy-duty suspension that can handle the rough-and-tumble nature of off-road travel. The TrailStomper is equipped with a Fox coil-over independent suspension with heavy-duty trailing arms specifically for this task.
What’s more, the SportsRig has outfitted the trailer with 14″ steel wheels with 27″ all-terrain tires that are more than capable of handling whatever your off-road travels throw at it.
Plenty of storage is a third component to look at when planning to camp with an off-road trailer. As noted above, the TrailStomper has loads of options. For example, the base TS1 model has a cargo rack, a 43″ x 40″ x 26″ chuck box, and a 20″ x 39″ front cargo tray for all your necessities.
The PRO Package gives you the option to add dual 37″ x 15 1/2″ x 12″ aluminum side boxes, a 30″ x 20″ x 20″ tongue-mounted gear box, and a pull-out slide tray for the chuck box that can hold up to 450 pounds of gear.
The TrailStomper is well-equipped for off-grid camping adventures with amenities like these!
Must-Have Items to Camp With an Off-Road Trailer
Photo by Oleh_Slobodeniuk via iStock
When planning a camping trip off-grid, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary equipment and supplies to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. While the specific items you’ll need will depend on your individual needs and preferences, there are a few essential things that every camper should bring.
First and foremost, you’ll need shelter. If you want to camp with an off-road trailer, this could be a ground tent, a rooftop tent, or even a hammock, depending on your preference. Make sure your shelter is sturdy, waterproof, and suitable for the terrain and weather conditions you’ll be camping in.
Whatever your sleeping accommodations, a good sleeping bag and sleeping pad are also essential for a comfortable and restful night’s sleep. Make sure your sleeping bag is rated for the temperatures you’ll be camping in, and choose a sleeping pad that provides adequate insulation and cushioning.
Photo by Ian Mumblo via iStock
Next, you’ll need a reliable heat source. This could be a camp stove, a portable grill, or even a fire pit, but make sure you have enough fuel or firewood to last for the duration of your trip. Be sure to follow all fire safety guidelines and regulations in the area where you’ll be camping, too.
Water is another essential item for camping off-grid. You’ll need enough clean water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. You can bring your own water in containers or bring a water filtration or purification system to treat water from natural sources such as rivers or lakes.
Other important items to bring include:
- Appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather and terrain.
- A first aid kit.
- Insect repellent.
- A map and compass.
- A flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
Also bring a means of cooking meals, fuel (e.g., a propane tank like the one shown attached to the SportsRig TrailStomper above that can fuel a heater and a cooking stove), hiking gear, bikes, and other necessities for exploring the landscape around camp.
Photo by Morsa Images via iStock
Finally, don’t forget to pack plenty of food and snacks that are easy to prepare and store. Bring non-perishable items such as canned goods, dried fruits and nuts, and energy bars, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables that can withstand the journey.
With these essential items, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a safe and comfortable camping experience off-grid. As noted earlier, the specific items you bring will vary based on your needs and wants. However, no matter who you are or where you like to camp with an off-road trailer, always remember to respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the wilderness.
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How to Camp With an Off-Road Trailer: Final Thoughts
As with so many things, deciding to camp with an off-road trailer requires a lot of planning and preparation. Guides like this are a good start – but you’ll need to invest more time and energy in devising your off-grid camping plans to suit your specific needs.
Though most of us don’t enjoy the planning and preparation stages of camping, they are nonetheless important for setting the stage for a fun, comfortable trip. It’s no fun getting to your off-road camping location and discovering that you’ve forgotten something essential! So, take your time, invest in a high-quality off-road trailer, and start planning your trip!