Photo by Patrick Hendry on Unsplash
There are many activities you can consider doing while you're outside. The favorite pastime for many people outdoors is usually camping, where you can enjoy the sight of beautiful stars. Many people prefer the traditional way of camping while others enjoy glamping which is glamorous camping. If you do consider camping as an option, then you must practice eco-friendly methods, no matter the activity. Here are some eco-friendly ways to exercise while going camping.
Rent or buy camping gear and leave electronic devices at home
You can get lots of used items to use during your camping adventures such as tents, benches, camp tables, a grill, and even a bed if you require them. However, for items you don't want to purchase used like sleeping bags, you can consider a more eco-friendly option like an eco-friendly sleeping bag. If you invest in one, you are reducing the margin of your carbon footprint. These types of sleeping bags are usually made of recycled materials. They also have a significant effect on the environment and your health at large.
While you enjoy the fresh air and trying to connect with nature, it is advisable not to stay cemented on your phone the entire time. This is usually seen as counterproductive to your planned outdoor activities. You can avoid using batteries and even avoid depending on your car to charge your phone. The most eco-friendly option to consider charging your phone is using solar chargers. You can also use solar lanterns instead of alternative gas and electric lanterns.
Camp near your home and leave no trace
It is recommended not to travel far distances to look for a place to camp; instead, you should look for nearby camping sites. This is eco-friendly in a way that you don't consume a lot of gasoline, and this ensures you don't pollute the environment with carbon monoxide emissions from your car. Summer is usually a good time to spend outdoors, so utilize the nearby camping sites like your backyard and even nearby lakes. This will not only save you money on gas but also benefit the environment.
After you finish your camping experience, it is proper etiquette to clean after yourselves. If you remove all the garbage you used, it will not only encourage other families to follow your example but also benefit the environment. It allows other families to enjoy the area the same as you did. You should also not pick flowers, vandalize benches, or disturb animals and the environment in any way. The rules you should remember about camping are observing and enjoying. These are the simple rules of leaving no trace that you should take into consideration. Whether that is camping in Utah or any other remote place.
Make sure to contain your fire and avoid disposable one-use items
You should always be conscious of how you are going to handle your lights, during any camping trip. Especially if you are in an area that is experiencing a drought. It is always advised to dig a pit before you light a fire, to make sure after you sleep the fire doesn't spread uncontrollably. If you are unable to follow this rule, you should familiarize yourself with your surroundings and choose the best place for your fire. You should also keep your fire small, but also save water and dirt nearby just in case of any undesired occurrence to extinguish the flames.
It would be best if you also considered buying plates and dishes that are washable, they cost less and are gentle to the environment. You can also save money because they are reusable and can be used on future camping trips. If you do your research, you should be able to find the type that suits you.
Choose non-toxic sunscreen and bug spray
If you consider using non-toxic ointments and bug spray, you are saving yourself from many diseases and respiratory issues. It is also not recommended to add toxins to your body or even spray toxic materials into the air. You can find a list of the less harmful sunscreen available posted every year by environmental working groups. There are also bug repellents that are less harmful to the environment, and they contain three less toxic ingredients. Packing eco-friendly ointments and sprays not only saves the environment but is also good for your health.
Planning an outdoor trip is not like deciding to go to the beach; it takes time to plan effectively. Making an eco-friendly plan preserves the environment and prevents global warming.
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