Going camping can mean pit toilets, cold showers, no electricity and wifi and occasionally no toilets at all. So why do it?

A big portion of my childhood was camping, bush walking, canoeing and just general outdoor activities. Despite various grievances like a lack of electricity or some home comforts, I always had an amazing time and it’s a shame that it’s not as big a part of my life anymore. I get that camping isn’t that appealing to everyone but here are some reasons to hopefully convince you otherwise.

Adapt To Your Comfort Level

Camping is 100% one of those activities which you can adjust according to your comfort level. If you can’t do pit toilets, try a campsite with proper amenities. Is the thought of no electricity or wifi an absolute no for you? There are plenty of campsites with both – although I would suggest trying to limit the use of these to have a better experience. I think one of the beauties of camping is that it doesn’t have to be you alone in the bush surviving with the items on your back. Grab some friends, a car full of gear and just enjoy the experience.

A Change Of Scenery

Now I know, a change of scenery can be obtained by going to a resort, exploring a new city or whatever else you’d like, but there’s something special about camping. There are some beautiful camping spots in Australia, deep in the bush, by beaches, near the snow, close to quaint towns and so on. These are all opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle of your daily life and have a change of environment. Depending on where you live, there’s a chance camping will provide a higher dose of nature than usual and honestly it does wonders for your mental and physical state. Even just a weekend away can help you relax and feel rejuvenated.

Relaxation Or Adventure

It’s up to you which you choose. My parents love going camping to escape work, to lie on the beach, read a book or have a swim. They also love going camping to bush walk up a mountain or bike ride around the area. The point is that you can choose how you want to spend your time, camping offers both a relaxing getaway and an adventurous escape. So many trips I’ve been on had a variety of both, going from reading on the beach one moment to watching friends rock jumping (safety first) and it made the trip all the more enjoyable.

Surrounded By Nature

This might seem similar to ‘a change of scenery’ but I promise it’s not. I wouldn’t consider myself a city person - I grew up in a small town and that’s what I’m used to. Being surrounding by the ocean, in the bush or just away from the city can do wonders for me both mentally and physically. I know this is the case for a lot of people and even if you’re a city person, a camping trip can definitely act as a recharge. It always feels special watching the stars in a campsite, not covered by city fumes, and sitting around a fire with friends and family. That’s always been one of my favourites, if not my favourite thing about going camping: sitting around a fire in a dingy chair, grubby feet in thongs, in my most comfortable attire watching the stars. Australia is full of beautiful spots to camp or adventure, so why not take advantage of it?

Societal Expectations Shift

This might seem like a weird one but when camping or in the bush people naturally care less about ‘normal’ appearances. Everyone’s a bit grimy and grubby. Trying to keep your feet clean after walking from the showers is one of the hardest tasks - somehow you always end up with dirt on your feet and that just how camping is. Since everyone around you is in the exact same boat, no one really cares how you look if you don’t have makeup on, if your hair’s greasy or you have scratches up your leg. You can let go of those expectations even for a day or two. It might take a bit of mental work but in the end it feels great.

These are just a few of the reasons I love going camping! Hopefully they will convince you to at least give it a try.