What is Camping? An A-Z Guide to Camping and Nature Experiences

Camping, or "cắm trại", is an activity that brings people closer to nature by setting up tents and living in outdoor areas such as forests, beaches, or mountains. It is a unique experiential tourism activity where you prepare your own accommodation and food sources and participate in outdoor recreational activities, with the main purpose of temporarily escaping urban life, enhancing connection with the natural environment, and strengthening community bonds.

Purpose and experience of camping activities

Camping is not just a simple trip; it's an opportunity to recharge and discover oneself.

Connect deeply with nature

Camping offers fresh air, majestic landscapes, and a rare tranquility in modern life. After stressful workdays, immersing oneself in the sound of birds chirping, streams flowing, or gazing at a star-filled night sky is an effective spiritual remedy. Many people choose to camp at Cuc Phuong National Park, Ba Vi National Park to enjoy the diverse ecosystem, or pristine beaches like Eo Gió (Quy Nhơn), Bãi Môn (Phú Yên) to feel the sea breeze and golden sunshine.

Train self-reliance and survival skills

Unlike traditional forms of relaxation, camping requires a high degree of proactivity and self-reliance. Participants need to pitch tents, prepare and cook food, and even find water sources themselves. Skills such as basic first aid, navigation, and lighting a fire are also reinforced. This is an opportunity for you to challenge yourself, develop confidence, and your ability to respond to unexpected situations.

Strengthen community cohesion

Camping is an ideal environment for enhancing communication and sharing among family members, groups of friends, or colleagues. Setting up tents together, preparing meals, chatting around a campfire, telling stories, or playing group games... all contribute to creating memorable experiences and strengthening bonds. In Vietnam, many companies also organize camping as a team-building activity, helping employees connect and understand each other better.

Common activities during a camping trip

A tripWhat is campingwill become more complete and interesting with the following specific activities:

Setting up a tent – A mobile home in nature

Tent pitching is a fundamental and iconic camping activity. It not only creates a temporary resting space but also brings a sense of "home" amidst the wild nature. From compact individual tents to spacious family tents, choosing and pitching a tent requires skill and cooperation. Currently, brands like Naturehike and Quechua offer a variety of quality tents at diverse price points, from VND 500,000 to several million VND.

Outdoor cooking – The special taste of nature

Preparing and enjoying hot meals in a natural setting is one of the most unique culinary experiences when camping. Grilled dishes, hot pots, or simple meals cooked over a campfire or mini gas stove offer a distinct flavor and a cozy atmosphere. In camping areas near streams, fishing and cooking on the spot is also a popular activity.

Outing, picnic – Relax and enjoy the scenery

Besides overnight stays, camping can also include day picnics. This is an opportunity for people to relax, enjoy the scenery and fresh air without much preparation. National parks and ecological tourist areas such as Tam Đảo and Hồ Dầu Tiếng are ideal locations for weekend picnics.

Other recreational and exploration activities

Depending on the location and preference, participants can choose many other activities to make the trip more interesting and diverse:

• Hiking/Trekking:Explore trails, mountains or primeval forests, such as the Ta Nang - Phan Dung discovery routes or conquering Fansipan.
• Mountaineering / Climbing:For those who love challenges, rock climbing is an activity that offers a sense of conquest and spectacular views.
• Swimming/SUP boarding:At locations with rivers, lakes, or the sea, swimming, kayaking, or SUP (Stand-up Paddleboarding) are great ways to cool off and get exercise.
• Fishing:A peaceful activity that helps you relax and immerse yourself in the natural scenery.
• Star gazing/Photography:With a sky free of light pollution, camping is an ideal opportunity to gaze at the Milky Way and capture beautiful moments.

Note: Always check safety conditions, weather, and local regulations before participating in these activities to ensure a complete and safe trip.

Origin and Popularity of Camping

What is camping?and where did it come from? This activity originated in the West, initially popular mainly among backpackers and exploration enthusiasts. However, over time, camping has spread and become a favored experiential travel trend globally. The term "camping" is formed from the English word "camp" combined with the suffix "-ing" to describe the act of pitching a camp and living outdoors.

In Vietnam, camping has boomed in recent years, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, as people sought safe outdoor activities close to nature. Professional campsites such as Son Tinh Camp (Hanoi), Cu Lan Village (Da Lat), or pristine beaches in Binh Thuan, Vung Tau continuously welcome large numbers of visitors. According to statistics from several tourism platforms, searches for "camping" in Vietnam have increased by more than 200% in the past three years, demonstrating the strong appeal of this type of tourism. All-inclusive camping tours range from 500,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND per person depending on the location and services.

Tips for a safe and complete camping trip

To have a memorable camping trip, you need to prepare thoroughly and adhere to safety rules:

Prepare luggage and equipment

• Tents, sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses:Ensure suitability for the number of people and weather conditions.
• Cooking utensils:Mini gas stove, set of pots and pans, knife, cutting board, bowls and chopsticks.
• Food & Beverage:Prioritize convenient, easy-to-prepare packaged foods and sufficient clean water.
• Flashlight, tent light:Essential for nighttime activities.
• First aid kit:Includes basic medications, bandages, antiseptics.
• Suitable clothing:You should bring comfortable, easy-to-move clothes that can provide good warmth.
• Insect repellent:Protect health from mosquitoes and other insects.

Safety and Environmental Notes

• Check the weather:Always check weather forecasts to avoid risks from storms or severe weather.
• Select a safe location:Avoid camping in areas prone to flash floods, landslides, or near deep ravines and large rivers/streams.
• Environmental protection:Do not litter, collect waste and dispose of it properly. Limit bonfires in areas at risk of forest fires.
• Schedule announcement:Share your itinerary and camping location with family or friends in case of an emergency.
• Absolutely no stimulants:Ensure you remain alert and sober to respond to any situation.

Camping is not just an activity but a lifestyle, a way to reconnect with oneself and the natural world. Hopefully, with the information above, you have a better understandingWhat is campingand ready for memorable adventures.