If the only thing on your mind at work is the great outdoors, it’s time to get away and pitch a tent. The great thing about camping is its accessibility, no matter where you are or where you go.

But it can be difficult to plan a perfect trip. And when you’re out in the middle of nowhere, a lack of a plan can have a compounding, disastrous outcome. Before packing your hiking bag, consider these camping ideas.

Keeping It Free of Electricity

One of the things that people romanticize about camping is its freedom from the “real world.” You should embrace this with your next camping trip.

Instead of packing the work laptop, consider leaving it at home. It’s also a good idea to take a single emergency phone, but don’t bring along your cell phone, either. Without the screen distraction, breathe in the outside air and forget about your 9-to-5.

What’s for Dinner?

Always have food prepared for lunch and dinner when you’re outdoors. But, try your hand at catching your own food or foraging.

Take a book or a guide with you about wild berries and edible plants in the woods. If you eat meat and have the proper licensing, try to catch your own supper at the stream or with rudimentary traps. Being close to the land means being as far away from the real world as possible.

Get Your Explorer’s Map

Go for a hike. Put on your best walking shoes (hopefully, you sprung for the specialized trail variety). And just walk in a direction.

It’s a good idea to take your emergency phone with you, along with a map and other navigational tools. If you’re a novice explorer, it’s easy to get lost. So, try hiking on a trail in a single direction.

But if you’ve got experience under your belt, try the less beaten path.

Camping Ideas for Games to Play

Have games ready to play while huddled around the campfire. Anything from charades to cards will make for cherished memories with the people you’re with. Don’t be afraid to act silly and goofy — it’s all about having fun.

If you’re looking for accommodations, be sure to book a camping ground beforehand. It’s all fun and games until you’re without a reservation.

Leaving Your Mark: A Spotless Forrest

There’s an adage that you should follow when camping, “always leave a place cleaner than when you arrived.” Try cleaning up the campground of litter. It makes for a more pleasant experience for everyone, but it also feels good to do your part.

You can even make a game out of it, too. Whoever cleans up the most wins!

An In-Tents Camping Trip

The great outdoors is the perfect escape from a 9-to-5. If you’re feeling stressed at work, escape into the woods.

While you’re outdoors, don’t bring any electronics with you; use the time to relax. Try catching your own food while in the woods and go for healthy hikes. When at the campfire, play games and clean up the surrounding area.

Do you love the outdoors? Check out our other articles on hiking, camping, and forestry.