How to Camp With Your Partner and Enjoy It
It’s summer now, so naturally you’re looking for outdoor fun with your partner, and camping is one of those activities that not only gets you outside, but gives you the time and space to connect deeply with each other. But camping is also one of those activities that can quickly go awry (mother nature takes no prisoners). Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor expert or a complete novice, it’s important to think carefully about the first hike you take with your partner.
Decide what type of hike you both want
“Camping can be tricky if you’re not ready for it, so above all, be sure to choose a campsite that suits both your needs and all the amenities you need,” says Becky Moore, founder of GlobalGrasshopper. , an award-winning blog and resource for independent travelers. “First, make sure you both agree on what you want out of the trip. Discuss what you would like to do, what kind of camping experience you hope to have, and how much time you want to spend outdoors.”
For example, a trip full of hiking and biking is very different from a trip full of camping. That’s why Sarah Melanson , a sociologist and sexologist, says it’s important to share any concerns, whether it’s hiking in general or hiking together .
“When we put our fears on the table, they can become an opportunity for communication and problem solving.”
Divide tasks between you
When it comes to camping, a lot depends on packing and setting up the camp before preparing the food. Such activities are not only necessary for camping holidays, but also help couples bond before and during the trip.
“These are all opportunities to communicate about what you want to get together from camping and teamwork,” says Melancon. “Intentionally co-creating great experiences can help you feel connected at all stages—before, during, and after reflecting on memories.”
For example, you can take turns cooking and cleaning. Or someone puts up a tent, and the other makes a fire. When it comes to separating tasks, Moore says it’s wise to consider your past experience so you can plan accordingly for who does what and how to approach your team experience.
“One of the ways an experienced camper can help a newcomer enjoy camping is by sharing their knowledge and experience,” she says. “They can give advice on how to camp, what to pack, how to cook over a campfire, and how best to enjoy nature. They can also be encouraging and supportive, helping the newcomer feel comfortable and confident in their abilities.”
Give your partner the benefit of the doubt
In the wild, things can get a little wild, which means some things don’t go according to plan. You might get a little lost. Your partner may burn dinner. “Disappointment is normal in new and unusual experiences,” Melancon says. “Although the problem with camping is that your typical self-soothing methods may not be available.” If a problem arises, she offers to take a breather, and when you are reunited, she recommends that you consider these problems as an opportunity to become closer to each other.
“Camping for two is just you and the wildlife. Your usual ways of solving problems can be more challenging in this environment,” she says. “That means you have to get creative. When you and your partner have positive problem-solving experiences, especially in a new environment, it can trigger an oxytocin release and promote bonding.”
Take the time to make the experience special
Remember why you go camping – to communicate and enjoy each other’s company. So don’t forget to plan what you want to experience during the day and night to make it special. “Camping is a fun and affordable way for couples to spend time together,” Moore says. “There are many different activities that couples can enjoy while camping, such as hiking, biking, fishing and canoeing. Camping can be very romantic if you take the time to set up your campsite properly, enjoy cooking dinner together over a campfire, and take the time to look at the stars in the night sky together.”
And if you’re starting to see your partner in a new light through new surroundings, Melancon says, that’s good. “[This new experience] could make our partner even more attractive,” she says. “This echoes the notion of relationship therapist Esther Perel (in her book Mating in Captivity ) that we feel more desire for our partner when we see them separated from ourselves and our everyday expectations. Traveling and camping brings new and different situations that can allow us to surprise and intrigue our partner and thus help us feel more desire and chemistry.”