Every summer, we go on a family camping trip. After many years (the first such trip was in Algonquin Park, in Canada, back in 1998) we have developed a routine which I think might be of help to others who are just starting out.

First of all, based your decision about where to go squarely on how much time and money you have. The more time and money, the farther away you can go, and the more interesting activities you can do. but don’t go crazy in the planning phase, and overestimate how far you can drive, for example. It’s our experience that it is best if we do not try to drive more than 700 miles a day, 500 if we’re camping, because of the extra time spent setting up and breaking down tents.

Next, reserve your campsite unless the park tells you, when you call them, that there will be no need for a reservation. But call the park. By no means drive out there without communicating first. If you’re a less experienced camper, you might ask about weather and equipment needed. It would be best if you reserve your campsite 2 to 3 weeks in advance, especially if it’s a weekend, and even more if it’s a popular park or a holiday such as Memorial day, Labor Day, or the 4th of July.

Next, pack your gear. Set up the tents before you pack them; inspect the sleeping bags for serviceability. Go through your camp cooking equipment. Make sure it is operational. Pay special attention to fire-building and stove-fueling equipment.

Make a meal plan including three meals a day and snacks. Think through each meal. Consider whether you’re really going to want to
1) cook this stuff and
2) eat the meal once you’re out in the woods.
Then go to the store and buy the groceries and pack it up.

Next, pack the suitcases. If you have children, give them a packing list and let them pack for themselves. Then, if they’re younger kids, you can go over what they’ve done. If they’re older, and you’re vindictive, let them tell you they know what they need with no help from you and prepare to be amused when they forget something.

Pack the goods into the vehicle the night before departure. At least some of it. At the very least, understand that packing the vehicle will take more time than you expect. Do not frustrate yourself by getting up at 7 and expecting to be on the road at 8, if you haven’t packed the vehicle yet.

Before you leave, take the garbage out of the house. Make coffee and put it in a thermos and travel mugs. Remember to bring an i-pod or other music listening device to while away the miles. As you pull out on the open road, play “Born to be wild” and laugh.