Aside from the gear, clothes, and supplies you take with you, a camping road trip doesn’t really need to be planned. You can just set off into the unknown and head out wherever you fancy.
However, many people like to have a plan in their heads, and I can’t say that I blame them. Having a solid plan can lead you to some wonderful locations if you do your research beforehand while also minimizing unfortunate situations in which you head down a trail that’s closed or leads to nowhere interesting.
Additionally, it’s worth planning how you want to camp. For example, having a trailer along for the ride gives you a place to rest and relax without worrying about finding hotels or hostels every night. And if you get a trailer like the Sherpa Trailers Bigfoot, you can elevate the quality of your trip without busting your budget! More on that in a bit…
This article covers a few tips that will help you plan your camping road trip to ensure you have the best time out in the wilderness. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Choosing Your Route
- Packing Up
- Avoid Driving Too Many Miles in a Single Day
- Don’t Rule out Detours
- Do it With People You Love
- Choose a Trailer You Can Trust
- Final Thoughts
Choosing Your Route
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Planning your camping road trip ahead of time has many benefits. First and foremost, you can pinpoint attractions you want to see or camp spots that look attractive. This can be done through off-road navigation applications. Many of these applications and devices have hotspots in the marked areas so you can browse and find exactly what you want to visit.
The best thing about planning your destination is that you can also plan your route. You can check for road closures ahead of time, weather updates, cool spots to stop for a break, and available hikes, or choose the road that looks the most scenic. If you want, you can also take the faster road.
Choosing a route and destination for your camping road trip also lets you factor in the capabilities of your vehicle, trailer, and yourself. For example, a trailer like the Bigfoot shown above is compact, lightweight, and nimble, so a narrow, winding mountain road won’t pose a problem for you towing this trailer.
Packing Up
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Packing can be a pain; however, the whole process becomes far easier with a trailer…
Think about it – a camping road trip in your car is great, but there’s far less room for you and your buddies because all your gear is in the car with you. But with a trailer – like a compact teardrop like the Yeti – you have loads of storage space to keep the bulk of your gear safe, secure, and out of the car.
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My rule of thumb is to put all the frequently-used items in a reachable area so they can be grabbed easily (including a fire extinguisher and medical kit). Once that is done, we continue packing according to how often something is used. For example, recovery gear goes somewhere in the middle, and spare parts or tools go towards the rear and least reachable area.
Make sure you utilize every little space available and pack in a way that effectively uses your cargo area. You will be surprised at how much more storage you get when you pack things properly, particularly when you have a vehicle and a trailer!
Avoid Driving Too Many Miles in a Single Day
Driving a lot of miles in a single day on your camping road trip can both be tiring and boring. If you plan your route ahead of time, you should already know roughly the mileage and time you will be on the road each day.
Overdoing it can lead to accidents and frustration; therefore, always make sure to add something interesting midway along your trip just to make everything a bit more manageable.
A quick sightseeing stop here and a break for lunch there will give you time away from the road to rest and recharge. Plus, you never know what interesting attractions you might find when you stop!
Don’t Rule out Detours
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Sure, you want to stick to your plan. However, if you come across something exciting while on your way, it may be worth going for a detour to check it out. Planning is great, but we also need spontaneous action to keep the adventure spirit high. Sometimes, the unexpected is the highlight of a camping road trip.
Do It With People You Love
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In our opinion, a road trip needs to be done alone or with people you love – there isn’t a middle ground. A road trip alone can lead to self-discovery or a very relaxing few days, weeks, or even months.
A road trip taken with good friends or family will lead to unforgettable memories and an even stronger bond than the one you had before setting off. These trips must be enjoyed along the way – the destination is just a guide, not the actual highlight.
Choose a Trailer You Can Trust
One of the reasons I like the Sherpa Trailers Bigfoot Teardrop Trailer is that it isn’t just a towable; it’s a versatile option for anyone seeking the thrill of camping road trips. Compact, durable, and designed for the wild, the Bigfoot transforms overlanding into a seamless, comfortable, and memorable experience. Here’s why this trailer is a trusted addition to any adventurer’s setup…
Built for Rugged Terrain
The Bigfoot is a masterclass in off-road capability. With 31” 10-50 R-15 tires and heavy-duty aluminum fenders, this trailer effortlessly tackles rough terrains, from rocky trails to sandy deserts. The Dexter straight axle and leaf spring suspension (1400 lb. springs on each side) ensure stability and a smooth ride, no matter the challenges ahead. Whether you’re heading deep into the mountains or traversing remote backroads, the Bigfoot’s design keeps you confidently moving forward.
Compact But Spacious
Though compact at 5 ft. x 8 ft., the Bigfoot doesn’t skimp on comfort. The cabin easily accommodates a queen-sized mattress, offering a cozy retreat after a long day of exploration. Two adjustable, screened doors and a vent with a 12-volt fan provide excellent ventilation, ensuring a restful night under the stars.
For adventurers looking to expand their setup, the Bigfoot’s roof rack compatibility allows for the addition of a rooftop tent, providing even more sleeping space or storage.
Easy to Tow and Manage
Weighing approximately 1,300 lbs. with a tongue weight of just 140 lbs., the Bigfoot is designed for hassle-free towing. It pairs seamlessly with most SUVs and trucks, making it accessible to a wide range of campers. A wheeled jack and dual stabilizer jacks make maneuvering and stabilizing the trailer simple, even for solo travelers.
Convenience Meets Capability
The Bigfoot doesn’t just transport your gear; it enhances your camping experience. Key features include:
- 6-outlet power strip with external shore power or generator access to keep your devices and appliances charged.
- 2” receiver at the rear, which is perfect for bike racks or extra cargo.
- LED lighting for both the interior and exterior, which offers excellent visibility in all conditions.
These thoughtful additions make the Bigfoot a versatile tool for adventurers who value both functionality and convenience.
Uncompromising Durability
Every inch of the Bigfoot is engineered to withstand the elements. The ¾” exterior-grade plywood walls and floor, covered in 24-gauge sheet metal flashing, ensure durability and weather resistance. Inside, the mahogany plywood ceiling with 2×4 ribs adds structural integrity. An insulated roof with 1 ½” foam and 040-aluminum outer skin keeps the cabin comfortable in various climates.
A Trusted Overlanding Companion
The Bigfoot isn’t just a trailer—it’s a key piece of equipment for camping road trips. Its lightweight yet durable construction means it doesn’t strain your vehicle, while its off-road readiness ensures it can keep up with your adventures. The ability to expand its functionality with accessories like rooftop tents, bike racks, or extra storage makes it adaptable for any journey.
Speaking of trusted, you can get outfitted with a Sherpa Trailers Bigfoot from one of the most trusted names in the business – BTR Outfitters. I’ve worked with the BTR Outfitters team for several years now, and you won’t find a more dedicated, knowledgeable team. They’ll walk you through the Bigfoot trailer inside and out so you’re sure it’s the right trailer for you. And if it isn’t a good fit, they’ve got tons of other towable trailers available. Whatever is best for you is what the BTR Outfitters team will set you up with!
Final Thoughts
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A camping road trip can be spontaneous, but planning can ensure that you hit every spot you want while also avoiding potential problems on the road.
Furthermore, a good trailer like Bigfoot from Sherpa Trailers can transform your time on the road and make it a far more comfortable and enjoyable experience. This is especially true if you’re new to the world of camping trailers. Starting out with an affordable teardrop is an ideal inroad to towing a trailer and getting more comfortable having your home on wheels behind you.
If you want additional details about the Bigfoot, get in touch with BTR Outfitters!
Just so you know, some of the cool stuff we mention comes with affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission if you buy (no extra charge to you!). Plus, we occasionally feature sponsored content, but rest assured, we only shout out products we genuinely stand behind.
Learn More:
- First Look: The Bigfoot from Sherpa Trailers is Ready for Fun
- 3 Items That Give You a More Comfortable Camping Experience
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