Who does not want to escape the city lights and camp up in a hill staring at the stars?
But what if you come across some folks and their activities are the source of disturbance for everyone else?
In this case, some men-made trouble can ruin your most anticipated tour.The journey would be more enjoyable if the tourists camp and hike a bit responsibly.
And, there are some camping and hiking etiquettes for tourists to follow.
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The Ultimate Guide To Camping And Hiking Etiquette
To enjoy your tour responsibly while assuring that everyone else enjoys theirs too, let’s have a look at the camping manners that you need to follow.
Greet People Politely
In the time of hiking, if you find other people on the way, at least greet them with a smile. It does not seem necessary to talk, but saying “Hi” or “Hello” will not make you tired.
On the other hand, you might find someone greeting you, then deliver a response by at least nodding your head or with a smile.
If you want to talk, then be careful about the topic. Typically, the hikers would preferably like to share their hiking experiences and things related to it.
Limit The Usage Of Technology
The less you use the technology in nature, the more you will be able to enjoy it. Do not forget that you are on vacation. Keep your work away from the tour.
Also, listening to music in a loudspeaker is not something you should do. It is clearly against basic manners.
Make sure other tourists are not annoyed by your phone.
Do not ask for Wi-Fi hotspot connection whenever you take a break. Remember, people are there for enjoying the nature. Any distraction made by you can ruin their enjoyment.
Don’t Even Think Of Smoking
The best thing would be if you do not smoke at all. People go hiking and camping to breath in the open and fresh air.
Do not wait for a break to smoke in the open air. The smoke does not disappear the way you think. The non-smokers can smell it even from 100 yards away.
Hike Wisely With The Group
If you are about to make the tour with a group, make sure you guys are going in a single file.
Hiking with a big group will make loud shouting. Therefore, make a couple of small groups for hiking or the other campers will feel disturbed when your group passes them by.
It would be really annoying if you hear a group approach. This occurs because of the loud behavior of the members. Try to keep your voice down when it is necessary to talk.
Following this hiking etiquette is essential for the newbies. Because the pro tourists already know how to go hiking with a group.
Be Mindful About The Break Spot
Long distance hiking needs break to relax and prepare to walk for the rest of the way. Here, your group’s break spot should not block the whole path for other hikers.
If the break spot is big, then most likely there will be other groups too. So, try not to take a massive space for your group.
Respect Other Peoples’ Privacy
You need to be extra careful about people’s privacy. Do not camp too close to other peoples’ tent.
Tent’s walls are not soundproof. So, your activities and chitchat with your mates should not make any disturbance for people living in nearby tents.
Feeding Wildlife
Camping or hiking in wildlife areas, it is apparent that you will come across animals. And, the environment that they live in can provide them with enough food. So, you do not need to feed them.
But this feeding temptation is tough to avoid. But again, do not let the leftovers be a reason for environmental pollution.
Don’t Throw Away Food Recklessly
This goes without saying, when you finish eating, make sure there are no leftovers. Your foods should not be thrown here and there. Keep them inside the car, camp’s kitchen, or tie up in a tree. It is pretty obvious that you do not want to see a bear outside the tent just after waking up in the morning.
Play Smart with Firewood
If there is no fire ban for the camping, go out for gathering firewood from the ground. In the forest, you’re not expected to snap them off.
If there is any unused firewood, the most appreciable thing to do would be leaving them for the next camper.
Think yourself, what if you find firewood in the camping spot left by the others?
You will be happy, right?
Be the reason of happiness for others.
Always Lend A Helping Hand
If you notice a solo camper struggling to prepare his tent, feel free to help him out. In this way, you can make friends.
He might come helpful during your camping. Also, you can share your foods and invite him to eat with you.
Be Prepared For The Call Of Nature
Carry a toilet paper in your backpack. If there is any need of doing the business, go far away from the camp then dig a 7-inch hole.
After done with the business, cover it up. Do not expect a toilet with proper sewage system during the tour.
Compromise Bathing
If it is necessary to take a bath. Here, do not use soap or shampoo that can ruin the natural view. Don’t worry! You will find organic products that are environment-friendly, keep them inside your backpack.
No doubt, there will be a limited supply of water(if you didn’t camp near a lake or pond). So, taking a short shower is recommended.
Keep The Campsite Cleaner
Before leaving the campsite, make sure that you left it cleaner than before. Try to pick almost everything including broken straws and bottle caps.
This camping etiquette is expected from all tourists. It is highly appreciable to leave the spot clean for others too.
Try to rake a circle for highlighting the campfire area before leaving. This little effort will bring you a good compliment from the camp hosts.
Consider Taking Your Dog Camping
If you go with your dog, make sure you have complete control over it. Because not everyone in the tour loves dogs.
Prevent your dog from jumping onto others and licking them. Keep your pet quiet. If it is a crazy barker, do not bring with you.
Make sure you clean the feces of your dog. Even though it is something natural, but it should not be on the trails and be a reason for spreading diseases.
To Conclude
Remember the given guidelines for hiking and camping. Maintaining proper etiquette can make the journey more enjoyable and enlightening.
If you ever see someone showing him off as a passionate tourist, but gives less care to the etiquette, then do not count him as a pro tourist, or even a good real tourist.
Hopefully, the next time when you go out hiking and camping, these tips will help you to avoid unwanted circumstances.
