Written By – Jesse Clark
If you’re new to truck camping, you’re in for a great life. Having the ability to drive to where you want and sleep as close to under the open stars as possible opens up a whole new world of adventures. Today’s tips include information on everything from taking time off work to choosing where to go.
Prepare Your Employees And Customers
This tip is for those who work for themselves or own/run businesses. Make it known well ahead of time that you plan to be gone and “off the grid” for at least a few days. This might mean getting a bit of extra work done before you head out, hiring a temporary/virtual assistant, or creating Facebook posts that count down to your days gone. Remember, you started your business or began freelancing because you wanted more freedom, now’s your chance to take it.
Gear Up Your Truck
You likely already have your tent, but that’s not everything you’re going to want so that you can enjoy a little R&R. BullRing recommends an air mattress, vehicle awning, tie downs and anchor points, a cargo net, and a cooler. You also want to have a complete first aid kit, an extra battery pack for your cell phone, and a printed map in case you lose a signal.
Start With Campgrounds
While there are very few limits to where you can go camping from your truck, it’s a smart idea to begin with state campgrounds. You can find a list here. Your state campground will likely be a safe and convenient option as you’re learning the ropes. There will likely be a bathhouse, restaurants, and supply stations along with Park Rangers who can show you the best of your destination.
Handle Maintenance Before You Go
You have to take care of your vehicle before you hit the road. It’s very simple to handle common preventative maintenance tasks, such as checking the fluid levels and airing up the tires. NMC Truck Centers also recommends inspecting your brakes and checking your exterior lighting – while their tips apply to tractor-trailers, remember that these vehicles are on the road all the time, and it would not hurt to follow their maintenance routine if you plan to travel far from home.
Know Your Vehicle’s Towing Power
Whether you’re hauling a motorcycle or a boat, you have to know your vehicle’s towing capacity. Make sure that your vehicle can handle at least 15% more weight than your vote, ATV, motorcycle, etc. Your towing capacity depends on your make and model. You’ll also want to consider the conditions. If you’re going to be driving uphill or off-road, you may want a vehicle that can tow more weight if you need to weigh down your trailer to keep it from jumping up and down on uneven terrain.
Consider Your Family
When you’re traveling with kids, you want to pay closer attention to where you go and the type of itinerary planned. Look for campgrounds that caters to little ones and that offer just enough adventure to get your adrenaline filled without frightening the smallest members of your travel team.
Camping is nothing new, but it’s becoming an increasingly intriguing vacation option for those that want to spend time with their families in the outdoors and reap all of the rewards of the open road. But it does take planning. If you work for yourself, for example, you have to let everyone know well ahead of time. Then, it’s a matter of making sure you know where you’re going and that you have everything you need to have a safe and successful getaway… All from the back of your truck.
