Tips For Camping With International Campers
Camping is a skill that’s learned over a lifetime, and from the very first trip we take, we learn new things each time about how to do it right and what to do when you go camping. Camping rules and etiquette play a very important part in this pastime and they’re especially important when we’re venturing outdoors with guests from other countries or visiting foreign lands for ourselves.
Just as all other aspects of life and society has rules and etiquette to follow when going overseas, so too does the act of camping. Whether you’re bringing along some foreign visitors on your next trip or going overseas yourself, the act of learning and respecting these camping rules is extremely important.
What Are Some Common Camping Rules Overseas?
If you choose to venture overseas for your next camping trip, there’s a lot more you’ll have to remember than just packing the right gear. We can become so used to camping at home that we sometimes forget other countries might have their own laws, rules, and etiquette, so here are some things to check off before you go.
Check Local Laws
Every country, state, and city have their own laws regarding camping. You’ll need to research the specific legislation in place that has to do with camping, hiking, fishing, and any outdoor activities. You’ll also want to find out whether or not you can bathe in local water spots, as this is illegal in some countries.
Know The Right Spots
Some countries are quite relaxed when it comes to camping, and will allow you to set up in just about any area. Others are strict and there are set areas for camping, with anyone going outside of these facing fines and other serious penalties.
Vehicle Rules And Laws
If you’re camping with a car, this is a whole new set of rules you’ll have to keep in mind. Some forbid international drivers, other countries might have requirements for driving, like in France where you’re required to carry a personal breathalyzer test on you at all times in the vehicle.
Food Storage
Smart campers understand that food storage is everything, but there are actual laws governing it in some countries. Canada, for example, is a country that has specific laws about how food is to be stored in the outdoors.
Keep It Clean
Just as you would at home, you need to keep all campsites clean and remove any trace of you being there before you leave. This also refers to not disturbing local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Going Camping With International Campers
When international visitors come to America, they’re usually doing so to witness the amazing natural landscapes that this country has to offer. Therefore, a camping trip is a pretty standard thing to add to their itinerary.
If you have guests or friends visiting from overseas, you’ll need to let them know about the camping etiquette that we adhere by in the United States. These are some of the key things that they should keep in mind if planning a trip.
- Keep your distance – It’s always important to give other campers space when you’re at a campsite, and this is for the benefit adults and kids. It’s respectful to let others have their privacy and a place that feels like their own, so leave adequate room between yourself and the next camping group
- Leave no trace – The most important rule to follow, not just in the US, but all over the world, is to leave no trace behind. Clean up your rubbish, make a minimal impact on the environment, and don’t interfere with nature
- Be respectful – You need to be respectful of the local laws, other campers, wildlife in the area, and future generations who want to enjoy the land as you do
What To Avoid With International Campers
When you’re taking international campers along on your trip, it’s best to keep things as simple as possible for their first American adventure. Avoid going out in extreme weather and head to locations that will be comfortable and require minimal packing of extra gear.
Another thing to be mindful of is their safety, as there can be some outdoor activities that can be easily misjudged by visitors to the country. The conditions of running rivers and bodies of water or the risks involved with activities like mountain climbing or long hikes should all be taken into careful consideration.
Sometimes, it’s better to keep things easy and safe when camping with beginners, especially when they’re foreign guests to the country. Choose an easily accessible and safe campground to visit, and let them enjoy your favorite hobby without putting anyone in danger of extreme weather or thrill seeker activities.
Experiencing Camping From Someone Else’s View
There are so many benefits to experiencing camping in another part of the world, provided you are showing that country the respect it deserves. Research and education are essential parts of the planning experience when you’re camping and if you’re not committed to finding out all there is to know, it’s probably not ideal for you.
On the same token, having international guests enjoy an American camping experience with you means showing them the local rules and etiquette. By sharing this knowledge with them you’ll ensure they are respectful and smart campers, and might even be able to share what they’ve learned with their peers who are planning to visit the country as well.
No matter where we visit in the world or the places we camp, it’s always important to respect the land you’re on. Leave no trace behind and always follow the local laws and regulations to ensure that the camping pastime is something that can be enjoyed by all future generations and visitors to our country.
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