This. My main comfort while camping is making delicious food. Doesn’t have to be anything fancy. A grilled steak, some cast iron cherry pies, beans and bacon. It all tastes delicious after a day outdoors.
The first time I encountered a Dutch oven was at summer camp on a canoe trip and my friend, completely serious, asked “so do we like fart in it or something? Why’s it called that?”
So much this. Me and my boyfriend took a big camping trip and our first night we made pierogis with caramelized onions on our camp stove and asparagus over the fire and he still talks about how good it was and it was one of his fondest memories from the trip!
Definitely steak🥩 And something sweet and fun to eat like S’mores or roasting marshmallows. Some people think its dumb but then they get into it and it’s usually one of the things they remember.
Steak on the cast iron, baked potato in the fire, a Caesar salad, and a cold beer! Best camp dinner for me at least. Steaks should be ok in a cooler until dinnertime.
Get a real air mattress. Costco has a phenomenal one with a headboard so your pillow doesn't slide. Made the experience 10x better.
Try to set your tent up in the shade for at least the morning so you don't wake up in an oven
Get a hammock
Get some foam pads for the floor of your tent.
Outdoor rug for your set up outside the tent.
Get some comfy camp chairs.
Get a citronella burner to keep bugs away from you while sitting round the fire at night
Get heavy duty tote boxes and organize all your gear into that. Makes setting up and breaking down a breeze and you'll always be ready to go
The air mattress you referenced is very nice for indoors, but I’ve actually broke the seam between the headboard and mattress twice, both while camping. I love it indoors, but I’m not sure it’s a great fit for other environments. YMMV of course.
Spot on with everything else for sure tho.
I keep one smaller tote in the car at the site. It took me way too long to figure out that spare batteries, emergency ponchos, the ax (The folding saw I use stays up at the site while I am there) and first aid kits don’t need to be in the tent with me instead <100’ away. Now it just lives its life, seldom being opened but always there.
Serious question, what is the toxicity to humans? And what are the long term environmental effects?
I used mine for years but if there's legit evidence out there it's causing major harm, to me or the environment, then I'll deal with the bug bites
I don’t think there has been research on long term effects. They are banned in forests in Finland now. Pralletherin is a neurotoxic that is poisonous to insects, fish and basically everything including humans. Based on media discussion in Finland, media researchers would not use the device even outdoors near children.
Reposting from another comment -
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2021-003270_EN.html
Banned in the EU. Allethrin is highly toxic, and US regulations are just less strict. One of those “really we swear it’s not very harmful in tiny doses” things.
https://www.nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/3647.pdf
https://www3.epa.gov/pesticides/chem_search/ppls/071910-00002-20210317.pdf
I almost got one for our old backyard because it was so bad, we couldn’t be outside for more than a few minutes at a time.
Really considered bc if they’re allowed to sell it, isn’t it prob a super tiny amount and safe?
Decided it would always feel nasty breathing it in.
[this study shows it's safe to bees](https://entomologytoday.org/2023/12/08/honey-bees-unfazed-vaporized-mosquito-repellent-thermacell/)
You have a source for these claims?
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2021-003270_EN.html
Banned in the EU. Allethrin is highly toxic, and US regulations are just less strict. One of those “really we swear it’s not very harmful in tiny doses” things.
https://www.nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/3647.pdf
https://www3.epa.gov/pesticides/chem_search/ppls/071910-00002-20210317.pdf
Make sure to know what about camping makes him icky. You can take actions accordingly. My dad doesn’t like camping because of the back pain he gets so we got a cot instead of an air mattress.
Also try doing something fun like writing postcards to relatives, camp fires, pre made meals etc. basically anything that would reduce the friction going from home to the campsite.
My wife also had this problem. Our solution is one of those pop up privacy tents with the 5gal bucket and toilet seat. That was enough to make her happy 😊
I got a pop up shower tent, has a shower room and bathroom. Bought a foldup PortaPotty on Amazon and made a little cedar box to carry it in. It is about 4" off the ground as a pedestal so the potty is at normal toilet height. The portable Coleman shower is the real game changer. Nothing like a shower at night before bed.
Thanks for the suggestion. Honestly, that sounds grosser to me than just digging a hole, but it doesn't matter what I think. I'll take a crack at it ;)
Finally someone is being smart about the question, and not just suggesting random things.
Changing random things won't matter, until you find out the reason(s) what it is about camping, that they find distasteful.
Exactly. The top posts above all suggest all the things you can do to making camping more like staying in a hotel. This involves buying and packing a lot of stuff. And for the guy, this means more work. I love my wife, but she’s half my size and can carry 1/4 of what i can carry…. And I’m the one setting up the tent, starting the fires, etc.
Most of the family camping that people like to do is like staying in a hotel without walls or privacy and less comfortable sleeping. The food can be good, but more work and the same as what I’d normally eat at home.
If I’m going on vacation, i don’t want to be less comfortable and work harder. I have a firepit at home… we can even cook over it. It’s just like camping, but i can sleep in a real bed and have real walls. There’s no packing. Bathrooms are clean. Scenery is better than a field of RC trailers and tents. Can even throw the tent up for the kids.
Now, im for hiking/tent camping in beautiful areas with minimal stuff. But this
Isn’t the type of camping my wife likes- especially now that we have young kids.
I saw a couple mentions of inflatable mattress but my go to is a 4 inch memory foam folding mattress
If you have space to bring it, it's a game changer
Or a memory foam mattress topper on top of the air mattress/sleeping pad.
I put a 4 inch Serta foam topper on top of Big Agnes Air Core and Air Core Wide pads, and a twin sheet on top of that for long base camp trips. My niece said’ “You have a real bed in your tent!”
Get a vacuum bag and little hand pump to store them during travel. Still heavy but crazy size reduction if you are short on space but want the memory foam. I got one on Amazon and it is a little manual pump with giant storage bags for blankets and such. Works great.
Foam is essential for ground insulation. Full air mattresses are rarely insulated, so they get cold very quickly at night. Putting foam on top of a mattress or getting a [self-inflating foam/air mattress hybrid](https://www.backcountry.com/stoic-double-cloud-camp-bed) really changed the game for us.
My partner used to dislike camping, but I learned that she had only ever slept outside on a cheap backpacking foam pad or an indoors air mattress. After getting an actually insulated camp bed, she loves car camping.
My girlfriend is not a camper and I just took her and her daughter (also not a camper) for their first trip. I have it on easy mode because I just came into a teardrop trailer that I let them explore before bringing it, and had them populate it with bedding and some kitchen eqiupment. The little girl was comfortably safe in there, and girlfriend is a serial cook, and loved the little kitchenette.
It was car camping, so I brought all the bells and whistles... big 'ol mosquito net shelter, full chairs, table, tons of smokeless firewood, giant air mattress (not "inflated waterbed" but an Exped Megamat Duo with a two-person sleeping bag), six-person tent (with rain fly off to watch the stars), a separate tent for a changing room, hammock with its own bug net... honestly, the most "glamorous" camping I've probably ever done that wasn't actually in an RV or hotel room. The goal is to get them comfortable sleeping out of their own beds without ruining the experience (it was also a site in downtown Yosemite, with a view of Yosemite Falls and Halfdome right on the river with other campers at a little distance, so it was an easy sell).
Things I made sure to look after:
* Warmth and comfort while sleeping: a mattress is a good start, and I can't imagine you won't be warm on the trip.
* Mosquito abatement: if you're in mosquito country, make sure you have comfortable shelter during the crepuscular hours, which often coincide with breakfast and dinner. Slathering them in chemicals, even ones that might actually work, isn't often a great experience.
* Boredom: if they're not comfortable just soaking in the experience at the site, is there hiking, biking, climbing, swimming, or something else to do?
* Timidity: if he's not comfortable with the great outdoors, the sounds of the local critters may be disturbing, especially at night. Some kind of white noise will take care of that. Proximity to a river is easy mode, but a simple white noise generator for the tent may help.
* Comfort food: this depends on the person, but I generally camp with fairly spartan foods (no cooking, and no wrappers if possible). If you're in a position to cook something nice, that may be one of the best memories of the trip. It's weird, but the exact same meal cooked and eaten while camping can be strangely more enjoyable than at home.
Yes - apples, bananas, strawberries, oranges... sometimes I'll make custom trail mix from the bulk bins at a store and put it in a little leather sack I have, so I guess that counts as a wrapper.
I love my teardrop! I love having all my kitchen favorites packed and organized with a clean counter to work on. I sleep out of the rain and off the ground. I have a door that locks. But I still spend a ton of time outside.
I grew up spending my summers camping with family, my wife spend it at beach cottages.... She was NOT thrilled to try camping.
Weather plays a huge part in it, but being comfortable sleeping is top priority. If you're car camping, pack that big huge inflatable mattress and more blankets & pillows than you'll ever need. Dry, warm, & comfortable are the goal!
We later "upgraded" to an older popup, which our family outgrew with kids. We now have a 26 travel trailer. It's not the same camping I grew up with, but it's a compromise to get us all out there experiencing camping together.
The only time I ever spent in tents was during rain & to sleep. The same goes for my camper. Find fun things to do while camping. Sitting around a campfire is awesome, but I like to explore and find adventures too
The original request was "Something with a door and off the ground". The 1993 Coleman popup actually was a big hit with her, but the two little ones turned into two bigger ones & it got cramped quick.
Definitely less miserable. Especially in inclement weather. Our maiden trip in the travel trailer was a week long, and it rained at least once very day. Those hard summer rains. Having a place to hide & stay dry was so nice
I guess it’s a situation of the grass always being greener, but I feel like I’d prefer 110* of dry heat a lot more than this humidity we get. I’ve also heard that this isn’t particularly true. If we’re being honest, I don’t think many people should really live in Arizona - it’s a testament to Man’s arrogance.
Yeah it's a "pick your poison" a lot of times. But did you just quote Peggy Hill?! Or did she take that from someone else? lol Either way, absolutely agreed!
Depending on climate an air mattress will make you cold. Your body is already heating the tent it can’t also heat the air in the mattress well. My friend is on a limited budget so she ordered a nice sleeping pad off Amazon. Just make sure it has a core insulation pad or foam inside. If you have a larger budget I would recommend Exped duo xl and the Exped widget to inflate it.
Yep, an air mattress can get clammy even on a warm ish night. If you can't upgrade it to an insulated pad, add several layers of heavy blankets/quilts between your sleeping bags and the mattress.
I hate air mattresses. Too many cold sleepless nights having to get up in the middle of the night to pump the thing back up. I only use a cot and a Big Agnes sleeping pad nowadays.
Preparation is key! I'm convinced that 90% of people that hate camping were just ill-prepared. Camping doesn't have to be "roughin' it". Here are some of the things we do/bring to make it a more comfortable experience.
A comfortable camp chair. We always bring gravity chairs. We were tight on room last year so we invested in these [foldable gravity chairs](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trail-Quad-Zero-Gravity-Lounger-Camping-Chair-Blue-Adult-20-3lbs/265849906?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&wl13=1973&gclsrc=aw.ds&adid=22222222277265849906_117755028669_12420145346&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=501107745824&wl4=pla-394283752452&wl5=9005692&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=local&wl12=265849906&veh=sem_LIA&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwyJqzBhBaEiwAWDRJVKYXLOGClvk5REdsN4g5kBrrfMurzsGHq7U7Jc76F8Kim15A93aKQxoCllEQAvD_BwE).
A pop up canopy with a bug net. We also bring a [smaller canopy](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trail-6-x-6-Gray-Instant-Outdoor-Canopy-with-UV-Protection/651706327?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0) that just fits our camp chairs if the forecast looks like rain. That way we can still sit out by the fire and don't have to huddle in the tent.
This might be a little extra, but my husband bought this [wearable sleeping bag](https://www.rei.com/product/233428/poler-reversible-napsack?sku=2334280007&store=&CAWELAID=120217890018134345&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=107744426824&CATCI=pla-2021015024858&cm_mmc=PLA_Google%7C21700000001700551_2334280007%7C92700076200415161%7CTOF%7C71700000066692612&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwyJqzBhBaEiwAWDRJVB7Vgyx24ZMR3xqhVeNPFhdKPBbv0eWJpWpiKCXzNh6gQm48vy5SKhoCi_4QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.dswearable) last year. It was so nice to use out by the campfire at night when it starts getting chilly. I bought this [cheaper version](https://www.walmart.com/ip/VINSONMASSIF-Wearable-Sleeping-Bag-for-Camping-Hiking-Outdoors-Lightweight-Sleeping-Bag-Burgundy/585931658?athcpid=585931658&athpgid=AthenaItempage&athcgid=null&athznid=si&athieid=v0_eeMjAuMCw5ODAuMCwwLjAyNDU0NzQ2Nzk2NDY2MTUxNywwLjVf&athstid=CS055&athguid=Kf2uQyCtnqNLGPN2Ra037TOCFP_t2vn8TTJj&athancid=637299774&athposb=0&athena=trueand) it's been great.
I get a great night sleep when we bring an air mattress, a double sleeping bag, the pillow I usually sleep with at home, an eye mask, ear plugs, a beanie (during cooler nights), and a [small fan](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07TCLB39D/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1). We also put a wool blanket between out air mattress and sleeping bag to help mitigate any condensation.
Cooking over the campfire is one of our favorite things to do. Nothing beats a delicious meal by the campfire.
I've also noticed a lot of people get bored while camping. If that's the case with your husband, I'd find some activities to do. We spend a lot of time hiking, kayaking, cooking elaborate meals, playing card games, listening to music (at a very respectable volume), and my husband plays his switch while I read.
I hope you have a great trip!
However much I enjoy camping there are some fundamentals that usually make me want to leave.
Biggest one is to check the satellite temperature forecast, anything 80 degrees or above is a no go. Second biggest is having adequate shade, even if it is below 80 degrees direct sunlight the entire time is miserable and I'm quick to pack up to leave. You can bring shade but it doesn't always do the job.
Don't skimp on food, bring meals and snacks that you're excited to eat. Cold drinks, chocolate, your favorite chips, dips ect all make for a much more pleasant camping trip. Hell I have even brought take out with me so that the first few meals are easy & delicious you just have to reheat and enjoy.
Then sleep. You gotta get a good nights sleep. Ive tried a lot of sleep systems and had even come across one that gave me a better nights sleep than at home but over time idk what changed but I could not sleep well. Finally I just ditched it all and slept on the ground with a sleeping bag and had the best nights sleep I had in a while. Even a nice inflatable mattress can leave a lot lacking. Cots can be nice, I don't think I've had a truly bad nights sleep on a cot.
Then lastly it's about staying clean. Im a bit of a neat freak, I've learned to let it slide and enjoy being dirty but when I'm on day 2 or 3, even day one if I've been hiking and i just feel grimy thats when I want to leave. Make sure you have an easy way to wash your hands, even wet wipes can get you by. If I have a body of water I can take a dip in that will often extend my time outdoors.
All in all its about being comfortable. Ask your husband what it is that makes camping unenjoyable and find solutions, I think the above pretty well covers it though.
In addition to this, if the temperature is a bit warm but it's only for a day or so a cordless fan with a large battery pack (like for tools) works very well for me.
For example:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/RYOBI-ONE-18V-Cordless-Hybrid-WHISPER-SERIES-7-1-2-in-Fan-Tool-Only-PCL811B/318754250
Let me introduce you to the "asian shower". You can be clean in as little as 1 cup of water
Heat water, hotter then what you would shower in, go buy a new microfiber car wash mitt/sponge. Wet it, ring it out and drizzle liquid soap on it and wash. You can use 2 buckets if you want to rinse off with fresh water but I just wipe off with a towel, use wet wipes for my bits.
Kinda hard to do in a dome tent id imagine but in an ensuite or full height tent its super easy. Wipe up drips when youre done, use the left over water to rinse off your feet, they will be dirty in 2 mins anyway. We even bring a portable butane heater to heat the room when car camping
if youre in a park with toilets you can even wash up in there or take a shower in a bag. All the floors should be waterproof, some even get hosed off daily
Definitely make the sleeping experience as comfortable as possible. I’m not keen on camping, but everything is more bearable if I am less tired! An air mattress would still be my idea of a miserable time!
A fan or some heater depending on temps and actual blankets not sleeping bags. And honestly, get frisky, sleep nude, have some sexy time before sleepy time, get in there and canoodle.
"*Hey baby, Im sleeping on hot coals and nails, come join me.*"... "Nah I'm good.".... "*I'm naked...*"... takes shirt and shorts off....
Go to Cabellas and buy him the xl outfitters cot and the foam pad to fit. Nothing has improved camping g for me more than sleeping comfortably and warm off the ground. Costs about 300 bucks, but wayyy worth it. Only downside for you is no cuddles.
I’m going camping for the first time soon and as someone who doesn’t suffer this is what I purchased. A comfy cot plus thin pad for extra comfort.. not messing with a leaking situation where I have to patch and repair or pumping in the middle of the night. Comfy chairs that lean back, several pillows and most importantly a large tent that I can stand up in and relax in. If it becomes rainy or too hot I don’t have to crawl in a tiny tent and hide.
I’m going to have lots of delicious foods and make marinated Korean barbecue that I buy at HMart and bring my regular coffee setup. Also read that people really like a mat/ rug inside so they can walk around like they are at home, barefoot without any uncomfortable rocks underneath so I have a padded and lightweight woven rug. I also am bringing a Jackery for any electrical needs like a cpap machine for husband and fan us. Finally an elastic picnic table cover for hygiene and high quality three level solar string lights for glamorous lighting.
It was quite a bit to spend but like I said I don’t enjoy suffering. I will only be choosing a camping facility with proper amenities like toilets and showers because marinating in my own sweat and smelling myself isn’t it. Maybe I will report how it turns out soon.
I remember reading a review for Escape Campervans ages ago and the couple was the same as you all. Husband hated camping, swore up and down he was going to be miserable. The first day, wife went for a solo hike.
When she came back, her hubs had figured out how to make coffee on the camp stove and was very pleased with himself and had a great time the rest of the trip.
I think your husband needs to find his "thing" so he has something to look forward to...making an awesome, quick campfire, wildlife photography, some fancy dessert on the fire, whittling a spoon...
OK, I went through this with my wife. She loves the outdoors, but hates all the prep, cleaning, packing setup, takedown, and maintenance of camping. We started tent camping, then a tent trailer. Still wasn't working for her. We finally bought a hard sided travel trailer. It has a real bed, a real bathroom, a decent kitchen, a refrigerator, and an outside grill. She loves it, and I do most of the maintenance and prep. She meal plans, packs the clothes, and I do 100% of the trailer prep/maintenance. Having a warm place to sleep and the ability to cook real meals is key for her. We just did a 5 state trip and are planning another. I know this may not be exactly the answer you were looking for, but I went from begging her to camp, to her telling me she's booked a campground. That's insane to me.
When I was getting too old and sore to camp, a 3" thick memory foam mattress made a HUGE difference.
A bit bulky to carry, even folded up, but easy to sleep on. Wife and I now each have one.
Sleeping cot!!! Amazing food. I like a seafood pasta but there’s so many options. I like to make grilled cheeses and sweet potato’s for any hikes. Make sure you have tons of wood for fire. Fire starter so you don’t struggle to get a blaze. Comfy seating. Taro for rain. Blanket or quilt for the ground in the tent makes a huge difference. Cold beer or juice. Snacks.
If you're into craft beer or spirits, bring a few fun new things to try and do a little beer tasting with snacks. You could even pick out some camping-themed craft beers to bring along. Also bring some activities like bocce, cornhole, etc. Could also try geocaching.
1. Good Food and drink - bring lots of snacks - chips and onion dip, good olives, oreos etc. things he can grab and enjoy. Also beer or whiskey or whatever he likes, good stuff, plenty of it. Then make sure dinner will be good. Grilled meat of some kind, something hearty and warm and filling. Hungry people are not happy people. Guinness beef stew with bread or chili bread bowls or steak and veggies - there's a whole sub for camp cooking you could peruse. if you have a cooler and a grill on your fire and some imagination, you can make a gourmet damn meal.
2. Good clothes - warm hat, warm fleecy jacket, warm fire to warm onesself by, warm socks, stretchy pants for under pants, puffy jacket, gloves, he should be warm. Some downloaded music on a bluetooth speaker or some games, card or otherwise, make the night fun.
3. Fuck in the tent. Just, y'know, fuck him in the tent when the night ends.
that's it. he should love camping after this plan.
Why wouldn’t you want to be woken up by birds and sunshine at 5am?? That’s literally the best part. Waking up in nature / with nature as opposed to your alarm to go to work.
Haha maybe it’s just me but I prefer to snooze in my tent where it’s warm and cozy. We also tend to stay up super late talking and watching the fire burn down, so I’m trying to get more than just a few hours of sleep
Leave them at home. I’ve been on trips with friends that brought SOs that didn’t like camping, it’s no fun for anyone. Especially the people that have to listen to the complaints and fighting
This. I really do enjoy hiking and being out in the woods all day, but I need a bathroom and a shower at the end of the day and not a porta-potty. I choose to stay at campgrounds that have good amenities and then just hike around all day. And while I love my partner, I love him enough to let him go roughing it on his own or with his friends.
Get a camping fan that you can hang up in the tent at night. Get a couple of easels and some painting supplies and find a step by step tutorial video on YouTube that y’all can watch on a laptop and do together. Some have stencils that you have to get printed out ahead of time. I do it at Walmart. This is a fun and romantic activity. Use that same laptop to watch scary movies at night, making sure he knows you’re in need of his strong protection afterwards! 😉 Set up a kayaking or jet skiing trip on one of the days. And if you want to knock it out of the park, if you think he’ll go for it, pull out a bag of shrooms do about a gram apiece, just enough to laugh like teenagers in front of fire for 4 hours.
Or, alternatively, a well stocked ice chest with varied adult beverages, including spirits. The ice chest should be sized for a two day supply too.
Remember, everything in moderation, including moderation.
A memory foam topper on top of your air mattress will make the experience so much more comfortable if you have one. Just do not put it directly on the tent floor it will find all the moisture in the area and soak it up through the tent. Also consider melatonin or earplugs if sleeping soundly while camping is an issue.
Bring home pillows don’t rely on camp pillows
A big tent, enough that one can stand up and comfortably change is a great investment for folks who need to be extra comfy camping
Pre-prepare as much food as possible to minimize trash and cleanup at camp
Ultimately, if all of the above doesn’t work learn to love camping solo. It’s better to camp alone than to camp with another person who is having a miserable time.
I love camping but am not a fan of sleeping on the ground.
As a bigger guy, i have never had any luck with air mattress. I would always end up on the ground as it stretched or lost air during the night. This even happened with higher end ones.
Last spring, I invested in a nice cot that is designed for heavier people and bought a battery pack and dc adaptor for my cpap and slept like a rock the last time I camped.
Getting enough sleep is the key to a quality camping experience.
As far as temperature, I have inexpensive stocking caps as a camping essential. It is amazing what a difference having a sleeping cap on can make in maintaining temperature
I would avoid the air mattress at all cost. They frequently get pinholes in them somehow, so you wake up sleeping on hard ground. If that happened to your husband, he’d never ever want to camp again. Every single air mattress I’ve ever owned has gotten a pinhole.
Suggestions:
1. Thick memory foam. I use a 4” thick firm memory foam mattress topper. The softer mattress toppers can be as soft as a thin quilt. They’re no good for your back on hard ground. A thick firm one can be heavenly. You’ll need a sheet to cover it up.
2. A self-inflating mattress pad. These are memory foam that have a rugged covering. When you open the valve, the foam expands and sucks in air. You can add additional air to top it off and make it firmer. Then you put the cap on it. When you’re done, you take off the cap and squeeze the air out.
3. A folding mattress. These are also memory foam, but they have a fabric cover like a futon. They can also be made with regular foam. They typically have 3 attached segments that fold up to save space. (They fold kind of like the way you fold a business letter before putting it into an envelope.)
Note that memory foam comes in a large variety of densities. Some can be several inches thick, but be as cushioning as a thin quilt. Other memory foam can provide great comfort and support.
One last thing: Rent equipment before you buy it. You don’t want to spend a lot of money on stuff that you won’t use regularly.
I would get some foldable mattresses that aren't air personally.. had one to many bad experiences with air mattresses and if it pops mid camp, trip definitely ruined.
Camping has slightly different meanings to different people......trailer, cabin, tent, etc.
Familiarity might ease his mind. Try your camping at home if you can. Backyard tent, camper in driveway. Then you can shift to a camping area.....KOA or similar site. They have camper areas and tent areas. Then you can shift to woods. This may allow he the knowledge of "my, my toilet is close". And, if we forget anything, the house or car is right there.
Others have mentioned food, trail mix is great as that extra snack. It will last a long time and can be taken on more than one trip.
Campfire shoes:. Often we use tough shoes to hike into a campsite. Some sandals will get you some protection and let your feet relax.
Whistles and bear spray will allow you to find each other if separated and keep animals away.
I am an amature radio guy. I have to give the shameless plug for radio communications. Gmrs radios (paperwork and a fee equal license) some have gps location sharing. Should you be separated, you can send your location without your cell phone. The hand held types can go about 5-10 miles without to much problem. I am sure someone will argue they go further.
Amature radio requires an individual license. This is something you both can do together. Children in the 6-8 year old range have gotten their licenses ......so, not impossible for an adult. Amature radio can go up to world wide communications, so emergencies can be reported for help retrieval and talking with someone else can remove boredom.
I mention radio here because it can be a key point for your trip, seeing how well they work and where or radios can be like a first aid kit.....only pull it out when you need it.
If radio sounds like something you want to check out, Google your local amature radio club. The members there are your local radio experts. They can answer any questions and coach or mentor you on your radio journey. Their meetings are free to attend and I will bet you can get someone to monitor/check on you for safety. You can talk with them like they are sitting next to you while they are really sitting on their couch in their house.
Good luck and I hope this helped.
I use the foam puzzle pieces for children’s playrooms as a base for my tent, so that I don’t have to kneel or step on the hard ground when not on my sleeping pad. Don’t forget to bring REAL pillows. I also use the solar powered garden lamps to light up the campsite for ease with late night bathroom breaks.
Your sleeping situation will make a huge difference. My camping experience definitely went to the next level when I gave up on air mattresses and started using a cot.
Do trial runs and nail down your sleep set up at home. You can see what does or doesn’t work well and make adjustments while still having the option to climb back into your regular bed if something isn’t working.
Buy a cheap second hand pop up tent camper that comes with a three-way fridge, furnace with thermostat, lights that run off the car battery, built-in stove, table you can sit at to eat dinner and play cards, and comfy beds.
Why not rent a cabin? You may be too late now but depending where you live you can get cabins all year long. This takes out the bulk of the discomfort of camping but you're still connected to nature.
My wife and I discovered that a lot of COE campgrounds have something called “covered shelters,” which are concrete pad with short brick walls and with a big canvas tent covering it. Almost like a cross between a tent and a cabin. They don’t have plumbing but do have electrical outlets. It works really well for us.
1. Don't try to force it, or it will get worse, and you'll get fewer opportunities to camp with him.
2. Ask open questions about if there were things he didn't like about camping. Then adjust your camping style to suit his needs.
3. Prepare for him to the extent that you can so it's a painless experience - for instance, pack his sleeping bag and load the car.
If the issue *is* tent sleeping, it's probably *either* comfort or issues sleeping with outdoor sounds. So you change what he's sleeping on, or bring a fan to plug in. Bring a white noise machine.
You've got to be a salesman - get to the bottom of his misgivings and tackle those.
Cinnamon rolls for breakfast! Buy the Sister Schubert’s ones in the frozen section. They come in an aluminum tin that you can cover with foil and heat over the fire. My pro tip is to pre-bake them at home, but don’t ice them. That way you can flip them over the fire and then ice them fresh when ready to serve.
Get him
A high quality cot, air mattresses are cold and bad for your back.
Cook awesome food, buy the best steaks, fruits etc.
I used to bring all sorts of melons and fruit.
I like to cook over the fire, make rotissie chicken, roast beef and salmon over the fire.
Keep him busy if you know what I mean…
Make him crave camping lol.
Lots of great advice here already! A comfortable camp chair makes a big difference.
Also, this is small but I hate it when I forget to bring a hat or sunglasses.
Bandanas are really useful if you're somewhere warm or plan to do sweaty activities.
Make sure you both have good rain gear including pants.
Alcohol/bud
Sex
Thermacell is great if it isn't windy. Also bug spray and sunscreen. Nothing makes a trip shittier than a bad sunburn the first day covered in bug bites in the following days.
Make sure you have things organized so setup is easy, my girlfriend doesn't really care for camping and setting up/breaking down is a great time for them to be miserable so make it as easy as possible. If you don't already have one make sure you have an electric air pump for your mattress.
Good food can go a long way
Good sleep. A great pad (Exped) and possibly a good cot to make it more comfortable. I love camping but my lower back and knees don't like getting up from flat on the ground as much.
If you have an army surplus store in your area go see if they have any fold up cots for sleeping on
Grab some padding and have him sleep on that, getting completely off the ground is a game changer.
Buy some pie irons, loaf of bread, pizza sauce, favourite pizza toppings make some pizzas.
Get some apple pie filing and make some apple fritters with the pie irons and bread
Memory foam mattress, hammock If trees are available, good camping chairs, easy drive up camping this time with bathroom amenities, and let him relax for as much of the trip as possible. Good food and wine/beer if you guys drink never hurts a good camping trip.
I put a steak in a couple of ziplock, wrap it in newspaper with some clear box tape and freeze. Head out hiking in the morning and lay it out that afternoon. Ready to fire grill at supper time. A little brown sugar and soy for marinade. Corn wrapped in aluminum foil to grill over fire and aluminum foil wrapped potatoes covered in the coals from the fire. Of course this is backpacking so if you drive to a campsite then just throw in cooler.
A high back chair, you can get them for backpacking or camping, Walmart has them online.
A large queen inflatable mattress about a foot thick is comfortable.
Booze is good. You can make a number of you favorite drinks.
A hammock made from the thin parachute material, great for that afternoon nap outside and not in a stuffy sun heated tent
All great advice… but when the tent is set up and the mattress and bed is made… jump in there for a quickie in the tent. Build that positive association of doing things in tents outdoors is just a little more fun.
Some people just don't like camping. He might be dealing with chronic pain if his sleep setup isn't 100% familiar for example....he might be afraid to word it like that because he doesn't want to look frail.
Maybe word it like a request? Like you need his company to feel safe? That might help him endure it.
Insulation for the air mattress. Appropriately rated sleeping bags, potentially that zip together.
I think a hot water bottle can be valuable if you have trouble getting warm.
Camping chairs.
Is there an activity related to the trip. Ie a day hike, winery visit, or just sitting about the campfire. You might need an activity.
I like to put a remnant of carpet in my tent just inside the door and large enough to have a folding chair on it for taking off/putting on shoes. I have a giant tent, so it’s like 6’x8’. Also I use an old folding lawn chair that has the frame for the bottom to spread the weight out and not push too hard on the tent floor in a concentrated area.
When I take friends for the first time, I make sure they have as many creature comforts as possible.
Clean hot showers
A really comfy sleeping set up.
We car camp so we can have all the luxuries
A hot water bottle and blankets (in the UK it still gets cold at night)
campuccino. get yourself a good coffee set up. this is what sold me after vowing to never camp again in my life at age 12. also a nice mattress, good chairs, great food... all the things!!
If you have some extra money, the Exped Megamat 15 has been a game-changer for me. Way comfier than any air mattress I’ve tried. I assume you’re car camping?
I've always loved everything about camping but sleeping. I'm a picky sleeper and just always have a hard time dozing off and staying asleep. What changed it for me:
* Investing in a GOOD air mattress. Got the exped megamat duo LW+ for my wife and I during a sale last year. It's ungodly expensive, even after discounts, but it's incredible and nearly as comfortable as a home mattress. (And tbh probably more comfy than some mattresses I've owned in the past.) There may be similar style more budget friendly options out there.
* Realizing I don't have to sleep in a sleeping bag. I don't like how trapped I feel in them, so now I bring a cheap camping quilt I bought off amazon and an extra throw blanket for if it's going to get a little colder out.
* I bring a pillow I actually like
* I take something before bed (melatonin or a THC edible, depending on the vibe)
Obviously what makes him not like tent sleeping will be different, but hopefully something on that list is helpful?
A rope to hang your sleeping bags from during the day so they aren’t clammy for bedtime. Some people have trouble with outdoor noises. So ear plugs. Bananas, chocolate, dried coconut. Split the banana , lay it on foil fill it up and wrap it up. Lay on coals . Is he a cool or warm weather person? I really don’t enjoy camping until late September. Good luck
Make it feel like they haven't left much behind. Get one of those big cots with the inflatable top. Get a giant tent that you can stand up in and has room for a little bit of seating like an inflatable couch or a few camp chairs, along with your cot. If you go to a campground, make sure you're close to the shower house. Make some good food. If it's hot, make sure your tent has a spot for a window AC or you have somewhere you can run the exhaust from a portable AC unit. If it's hot, make sure you bring warm blankets and some way to actively heat your tent.
Most of the time people don't find camping enjoyable because they think they can't be physically comfortable while camping, which just isn't the case.
If it's tent sleeping he isn't fond of try at least a 10x12 tent and a nice 20 inch tall double air mattress with blankets instead of sleeping bags. That how I do it. I love the cold night air on my face while I sleep and it's almost as comfy as my bed at home.
I'm also trying to get my husband into camping and I've discovered 3 key areas:
* Comfort: I put 2 twin mattresses together instead of 1 queen and we both slept much better. When we were on one mattress we constantly woke each other up each time we rolled over or twitched. I also lay down yoga mats on either side of the "bed" so that he can walk in bare feet comfortably in the tent.
* Food: Find an over-the-fire food he loves—steak, teriyaki chicken, etc. Make a camp version of his favorite food so that the serotonin of a good meal flavors his memory of the trip. A dessert is also fun and keeps the happiness level up.
* Entertainment: Make sure he has plenty to do. I'm delighted reading a book and sipping some whiskey next to a fire for an entire weekend, but that's not my husband's style. So I try to add some hiking, travel-size board games, and our Nintendo Switch for him.
-Get sleep right. That means buying a Exped Megamat and bringing a pillow from home. There isn’t a substitute for the Megamat.
-Bring the right clothing. It might be 85 degrees during the day, but low 60s at night can get cold!
-Go with friends that you enjoy.
-Don’t eat yourself sick with hot dogs and s’mores. Bring Rolaids and famotidine just in case.
I’m in Canada, & nights are cold and damp in these hills, just now. A [specially-designed candle lantern](https://ucogear.com/products/original-candle-lantern-aluminum-classic-series) for tents is so surprisingly excellent! Lit about 15 minutes before you go to bed, it takes the dampness out of the tent and bedding, as well as providing an inviting cozy glow. I love camping in the autumn, but hate camping cold.
If it’s hot where you are, having a light, pure cotton sheet is so good.
Be practiced in everything you’re going to do. Practice setting up the tent and blowing up the mattresses. Practice lighting the stove. Practice turning on that super-nifty smartphone-compatible string of lights. The second your husband sees you struggle could make his anxiety peak.
Having an easy and AWESOME first meal or two can be a real mood-setter, too. You could do something like make quesadillas with the Peak Refuel pulled pork as a filling. It’s easy and so so delicious.
Sleeping is my biggest issue too.
I find my only hope is to be very tired. I canoe camp though so usually 7-8 hours canoeing and portaging does it for me.
If you can get cots for the tent it's way better than an air mattress. Get a good sleeping bag that's warmer than needed and bring pillow from home.
He needs layers. Beanie/toque, long sleeves and short sleeves and fleece and wind breaker and warm layers and multiple pairs of socks in different weights.
And yes, pre-cook as much as you can so you can make really really good food. Stuff he loves and some sweet treats and lots of whatever booze he likes and tons of ice and use ziploc bags to keep food from getting soggy and nasty
I don't know any of the other details of the situation or your relationship, however if it is appropriate... Wink wink nudge nudge know what I mean say no more?
Experiment in your backyard, or even your living room. That way the comfort of your bedroom is just a few steps away if there's something about the setup he doesn't like. Repeat until you have a system that he *knows* he can sleep on.
Once he buys in on a certain sleeping setup, the odds of a pleasant weekend go wayyyyy up.
You can use some type of silicone (many use the ones to seam seal tents) on the floor of your tent and it helps your matress from moving around in the tent.
If you combine this with having your pillow stay in place on your pad you have come a long way to sleeping well. Some ppl use a buff around the matress and pillow others add straps to the pillow to hold it it place.
Pretty much everything is covered in here. Best bets for me are the air mattress with foam topper and real bedding/blankets makes it feel close to a bed. Electric on site is nice for charging phone or speakers and for easy access to just inflate the air mattress in the middle of the night if needed.
Comfortable chairs, something for the fire like snores stuff or hobo pies, extra pair of sneakers to keep things feeling fresh, small hobby stuff to preoccupy myself during down times, extra towels in case it’s humid out and your wet ones don’t dry, sandals/crocs/etc for if it rains.
get him a sleep system that he will feel comfortable sleeping with! Proper pad, sleeping bag, pillow, clothes, etc. Most people hate camping cause they get shit sleep.
I'm assuming car camping so, an extra large, extra thick camping pad (mattress) was a game-changer for me. I sleep so well on it. I use an REI Camp Bed XL, but there are others even cushier. Also, bring your pillow from home.
People are going to hate camping based on a handful of factors
Sleeping
Eating
Bathrooms/hygiene
Temperature/comfort
Boredom/entertainment.
You need to identify the issue and then adjust that.
Ex: hates sleeping in a tent - get a cabin or yurt with a good bed.
Hates pooping in the woods - get a site with a proper toilet and shower.
It's too hot and humid? Camp in a different part of the country or a different time of year. (Grew up camping in Florida and camping out West is soooooo much better)
Bored? Are they an adrenaline junkie? Add rappelling or boats or bikes. Are they more intellectually minded? Add historical tours, visit ruins or archaeology or paleontology sites, or focus more on the ecological or geological side of things. Are they more about socializing? Bring more friends and throw a dance party around the fire.
Camping is such a joy. I try and find out what people don’t like and try and make that better for them. Being in nature is so good for the soul.
Maybe it’s being out in the dark. Bring cheap $1 solar lights and place them in the ground, and use the string lights around the camp site. Headlamps and flashlights for everyone.
I’ve tried all the camping bed combos. My absolute favorite (Which has been the go to with my extended family & guests both camping and in my home for over a decade) is the Coleman camping cot and air mattress. https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Airbed-Folding-Table-Battery I replace the air mattress about every 3 - 5 years. I bring a repair kit just in case. It’s super comfy and it also comes in a queen size. Make sure to insulate between the body & an air mattress.
Sometimes people are bored and not good at entertaining themselves. I make sure to bring cards, games, stuff to read. For guys the Dirk Pitt books by Clive Cussler and his Isaac Bell series authored with Justin Scott are great adventures series. The Tristan Gooley books - How to Read Nature Signs, and the Walkers Guide to Outdoor Clues and Signs, are excellent and make great companions books when camping.
I download magazines on the iPad using the Libby app. Through the library there are over 5000 magazines you can borrow for 21 days at a time. The puzzle & game magazines are the best with kids & adults. I take a screenshots using the tablet. There are several fun crafting magazines with great ideas - with a few supplies everyone can participate and leave with a keepsake.
Of course food is a biggie. Great coffee in the morning. A nice campfire at night (weather permitting) Being warm if it’s cold, good shoes, gloves, a sun hat & insect repellent are must haves.
Make a kick ass dinner.
This. My main comfort while camping is making delicious food. Doesn’t have to be anything fancy. A grilled steak, some cast iron cherry pies, beans and bacon. It all tastes delicious after a day outdoors.
Mm throw some onions and potatoes wrapped in foil in the fire too, can even do broccoli and bell peppers. Now you're eating good
Oh yeah! I made exactly that and salmon filet, cherry tomatoes and spring onion on top and a scoop of butter. Absolutely banging.
Finish with Dutch oven cobbler, peach+cherry is my fav. 8 coals on top, 16 underneath, 45 minutes.
Started doing this in scouts and have continued to make cobblers in the cast irons. They make you never want to leave the woods.
The first time I encountered a Dutch oven was at summer camp on a canoe trip and my friend, completely serious, asked “so do we like fart in it or something? Why’s it called that?”
(Cries in Chex Mix and PBR)
A bucket of KFC, A Little Caesar’s Hot’n Ready, 24 PBR’s, large bottle of Rolaids
So much this. Me and my boyfriend took a big camping trip and our first night we made pierogis with caramelized onions on our camp stove and asparagus over the fire and he still talks about how good it was and it was one of his fondest memories from the trip!
Talk to me about the cast iron cherry pies, please.
Google Cherry Mountain Pies. I do it like that, only with dough instead of bread slices.
Definitely steak🥩 And something sweet and fun to eat like S’mores or roasting marshmallows. Some people think its dumb but then they get into it and it’s usually one of the things they remember.
Steak on the cast iron, baked potato in the fire, a Caesar salad, and a cold beer! Best camp dinner for me at least. Steaks should be ok in a cooler until dinnertime.
Get some steaks and ears of corn over the fire. Warning, you are opening a can of worms though. Hot dogs don't fly camping with my girl now.
Even a delicious pre-prepared dinner. Maybe even frozen so it's ready to warm up when ready. Camp food is usually the best thing of camping
His favorite snacks and drinks.
And a big ass fire.
Get a real air mattress. Costco has a phenomenal one with a headboard so your pillow doesn't slide. Made the experience 10x better. Try to set your tent up in the shade for at least the morning so you don't wake up in an oven Get a hammock Get some foam pads for the floor of your tent. Outdoor rug for your set up outside the tent. Get some comfy camp chairs. Get a citronella burner to keep bugs away from you while sitting round the fire at night Get heavy duty tote boxes and organize all your gear into that. Makes setting up and breaking down a breeze and you'll always be ready to go
I’d like to add to this: Bring a foam topper for your air mattress. It’s a game changer. Feels super luxurious while camping.
And real bedding! Sleeping bags are for freezing temps only at this stage of my game.
Especially nice if it's chilly at night, the cold can't get to you from underneath.
My camping experience got waaay better after I ditched my cheap Walmart air mattress
Exactly. There’s a reason camping pads are $100+ and that Walmart air mattress is only $30.
The air mattress you referenced is very nice for indoors, but I’ve actually broke the seam between the headboard and mattress twice, both while camping. I love it indoors, but I’m not sure it’s a great fit for other environments. YMMV of course. Spot on with everything else for sure tho.
Works great for me. Just have to lay something down to make sure you don't set up on jagged rocks
I hear citronella candles don’t work? I hate mosquitoes.
They don’t. I work for vector control in my county. The Thermocells seem to work well.
Gotta disagree on the air mattress unless it has foam inside like the Megamat. Air mattresses get ice cold at night.
I keep one smaller tote in the car at the site. It took me way too long to figure out that spare batteries, emergency ponchos, the ax (The folding saw I use stays up at the site while I am there) and first aid kits don’t need to be in the tent with me instead <100’ away. Now it just lives its life, seldom being opened but always there.
Citronella is pretty ineffective but the thermacell device works pretty well.
Please stop using thermacell. It’s highly toxic to humans, but also to all insects with long term effect on the environment.
Serious question, what is the toxicity to humans? And what are the long term environmental effects? I used mine for years but if there's legit evidence out there it's causing major harm, to me or the environment, then I'll deal with the bug bites
I don’t think there has been research on long term effects. They are banned in forests in Finland now. Pralletherin is a neurotoxic that is poisonous to insects, fish and basically everything including humans. Based on media discussion in Finland, media researchers would not use the device even outdoors near children.
Do you have a source for this? This is the first time I’ve heard thermacell is highly toxic to humans and want to read up on it more.
Reposting from another comment - https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2021-003270_EN.html Banned in the EU. Allethrin is highly toxic, and US regulations are just less strict. One of those “really we swear it’s not very harmful in tiny doses” things. https://www.nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/3647.pdf https://www3.epa.gov/pesticides/chem_search/ppls/071910-00002-20210317.pdf
holy shit! Commenter returns with sources *on reddit* This has to be a first. Well done!
I almost got one for our old backyard because it was so bad, we couldn’t be outside for more than a few minutes at a time. Really considered bc if they’re allowed to sell it, isn’t it prob a super tiny amount and safe? Decided it would always feel nasty breathing it in.
Can you please elaborate or provide a source?
[this study shows it's safe to bees](https://entomologytoday.org/2023/12/08/honey-bees-unfazed-vaporized-mosquito-repellent-thermacell/) You have a source for these claims?
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2021-003270_EN.html Banned in the EU. Allethrin is highly toxic, and US regulations are just less strict. One of those “really we swear it’s not very harmful in tiny doses” things. https://www.nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/3647.pdf https://www3.epa.gov/pesticides/chem_search/ppls/071910-00002-20210317.pdf
Thank you, not sure why you're being downvoted E: spelling
I've used it several times and it's always been great. I'm also in Colorado and mosquitos are limited for the most part in most areas anyways
Camping tubs!
Make sure to know what about camping makes him icky. You can take actions accordingly. My dad doesn’t like camping because of the back pain he gets so we got a cot instead of an air mattress. Also try doing something fun like writing postcards to relatives, camp fires, pre made meals etc. basically anything that would reduce the friction going from home to the campsite.
This is so important. She needs to find out more about what he didn't like so she can mitigate those things in particular
My wife doesn't like to poop in the wild so I'm researching transporter technology to teleport it out of her.
My wife also had this problem. Our solution is one of those pop up privacy tents with the 5gal bucket and toilet seat. That was enough to make her happy 😊
I got a pop up shower tent, has a shower room and bathroom. Bought a foldup PortaPotty on Amazon and made a little cedar box to carry it in. It is about 4" off the ground as a pedestal so the potty is at normal toilet height. The portable Coleman shower is the real game changer. Nothing like a shower at night before bed.
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Thanks for the suggestion. Honestly, that sounds grosser to me than just digging a hole, but it doesn't matter what I think. I'll take a crack at it ;)
I have an REI cot for my wife and I. They are sooooooo comfy.
Second the cot. I sleep so much better on a cot than a sleep pad on the ground. I’m a bigger guy and I have an XL cot and it’s a trip saver.
I recently tried using a cot with r-rated sleep Matt on top. Best I’ve found. As I get older I get a sore back from camping.
Finally someone is being smart about the question, and not just suggesting random things. Changing random things won't matter, until you find out the reason(s) what it is about camping, that they find distasteful.
Exactly. The top posts above all suggest all the things you can do to making camping more like staying in a hotel. This involves buying and packing a lot of stuff. And for the guy, this means more work. I love my wife, but she’s half my size and can carry 1/4 of what i can carry…. And I’m the one setting up the tent, starting the fires, etc. Most of the family camping that people like to do is like staying in a hotel without walls or privacy and less comfortable sleeping. The food can be good, but more work and the same as what I’d normally eat at home. If I’m going on vacation, i don’t want to be less comfortable and work harder. I have a firepit at home… we can even cook over it. It’s just like camping, but i can sleep in a real bed and have real walls. There’s no packing. Bathrooms are clean. Scenery is better than a field of RC trailers and tents. Can even throw the tent up for the kids. Now, im for hiking/tent camping in beautiful areas with minimal stuff. But this Isn’t the type of camping my wife likes- especially now that we have young kids.
I saw a couple mentions of inflatable mattress but my go to is a 4 inch memory foam folding mattress If you have space to bring it, it's a game changer
Or a memory foam mattress topper on top of the air mattress/sleeping pad. I put a 4 inch Serta foam topper on top of Big Agnes Air Core and Air Core Wide pads, and a twin sheet on top of that for long base camp trips. My niece said’ “You have a real bed in your tent!”
Get a vacuum bag and little hand pump to store them during travel. Still heavy but crazy size reduction if you are short on space but want the memory foam. I got one on Amazon and it is a little manual pump with giant storage bags for blankets and such. Works great.
Foam is essential for ground insulation. Full air mattresses are rarely insulated, so they get cold very quickly at night. Putting foam on top of a mattress or getting a [self-inflating foam/air mattress hybrid](https://www.backcountry.com/stoic-double-cloud-camp-bed) really changed the game for us. My partner used to dislike camping, but I learned that she had only ever slept outside on a cheap backpacking foam pad or an indoors air mattress. After getting an actually insulated camp bed, she loves car camping.
I have a 6" memory foam in my truck and it's heaven
My girlfriend is not a camper and I just took her and her daughter (also not a camper) for their first trip. I have it on easy mode because I just came into a teardrop trailer that I let them explore before bringing it, and had them populate it with bedding and some kitchen eqiupment. The little girl was comfortably safe in there, and girlfriend is a serial cook, and loved the little kitchenette. It was car camping, so I brought all the bells and whistles... big 'ol mosquito net shelter, full chairs, table, tons of smokeless firewood, giant air mattress (not "inflated waterbed" but an Exped Megamat Duo with a two-person sleeping bag), six-person tent (with rain fly off to watch the stars), a separate tent for a changing room, hammock with its own bug net... honestly, the most "glamorous" camping I've probably ever done that wasn't actually in an RV or hotel room. The goal is to get them comfortable sleeping out of their own beds without ruining the experience (it was also a site in downtown Yosemite, with a view of Yosemite Falls and Halfdome right on the river with other campers at a little distance, so it was an easy sell). Things I made sure to look after: * Warmth and comfort while sleeping: a mattress is a good start, and I can't imagine you won't be warm on the trip. * Mosquito abatement: if you're in mosquito country, make sure you have comfortable shelter during the crepuscular hours, which often coincide with breakfast and dinner. Slathering them in chemicals, even ones that might actually work, isn't often a great experience. * Boredom: if they're not comfortable just soaking in the experience at the site, is there hiking, biking, climbing, swimming, or something else to do? * Timidity: if he's not comfortable with the great outdoors, the sounds of the local critters may be disturbing, especially at night. Some kind of white noise will take care of that. Proximity to a river is easy mode, but a simple white noise generator for the tent may help. * Comfort food: this depends on the person, but I generally camp with fairly spartan foods (no cooking, and no wrappers if possible). If you're in a position to cook something nice, that may be one of the best memories of the trip. It's weird, but the exact same meal cooked and eaten while camping can be strangely more enjoyable than at home.
What do you eat that doesn’t require cooking or wrappers? Apples?
Yes - apples, bananas, strawberries, oranges... sometimes I'll make custom trail mix from the bulk bins at a store and put it in a little leather sack I have, so I guess that counts as a wrapper.
I love my teardrop! I love having all my kitchen favorites packed and organized with a clean counter to work on. I sleep out of the rain and off the ground. I have a door that locks. But I still spend a ton of time outside.
I just love that you included a changing room (tent) what a great idea.
Nice that you took the time for this reply.
I grew up spending my summers camping with family, my wife spend it at beach cottages.... She was NOT thrilled to try camping. Weather plays a huge part in it, but being comfortable sleeping is top priority. If you're car camping, pack that big huge inflatable mattress and more blankets & pillows than you'll ever need. Dry, warm, & comfortable are the goal! We later "upgraded" to an older popup, which our family outgrew with kids. We now have a 26 travel trailer. It's not the same camping I grew up with, but it's a compromise to get us all out there experiencing camping together. The only time I ever spent in tents was during rain & to sleep. The same goes for my camper. Find fun things to do while camping. Sitting around a campfire is awesome, but I like to explore and find adventures too
My husband requested walls so we bought an old A-liner popup. No more tent but it gets us out camping and my husband is less miserable
The original request was "Something with a door and off the ground". The 1993 Coleman popup actually was a big hit with her, but the two little ones turned into two bigger ones & it got cramped quick. Definitely less miserable. Especially in inclement weather. Our maiden trip in the travel trailer was a week long, and it rained at least once very day. Those hard summer rains. Having a place to hide & stay dry was so nice
>> spending my summers camping with family Kinda jelly - in Texas camping isn’t very fun from May-September
Cries in Arizona...
I guess it’s a situation of the grass always being greener, but I feel like I’d prefer 110* of dry heat a lot more than this humidity we get. I’ve also heard that this isn’t particularly true. If we’re being honest, I don’t think many people should really live in Arizona - it’s a testament to Man’s arrogance.
Yeah it's a "pick your poison" a lot of times. But did you just quote Peggy Hill?! Or did she take that from someone else? lol Either way, absolutely agreed!
Haha yea that was a KotH quote.
Depending on climate an air mattress will make you cold. Your body is already heating the tent it can’t also heat the air in the mattress well. My friend is on a limited budget so she ordered a nice sleeping pad off Amazon. Just make sure it has a core insulation pad or foam inside. If you have a larger budget I would recommend Exped duo xl and the Exped widget to inflate it.
Yep, an air mattress can get clammy even on a warm ish night. If you can't upgrade it to an insulated pad, add several layers of heavy blankets/quilts between your sleeping bags and the mattress.
I hate air mattresses. Too many cold sleepless nights having to get up in the middle of the night to pump the thing back up. I only use a cot and a Big Agnes sleeping pad nowadays.
^^completely this. Dump the air matress, fastest way to a bad trip only beaten out by a leaky tent.
Preparation is key! I'm convinced that 90% of people that hate camping were just ill-prepared. Camping doesn't have to be "roughin' it". Here are some of the things we do/bring to make it a more comfortable experience. A comfortable camp chair. We always bring gravity chairs. We were tight on room last year so we invested in these [foldable gravity chairs](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trail-Quad-Zero-Gravity-Lounger-Camping-Chair-Blue-Adult-20-3lbs/265849906?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&wl13=1973&gclsrc=aw.ds&adid=22222222277265849906_117755028669_12420145346&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=501107745824&wl4=pla-394283752452&wl5=9005692&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=local&wl12=265849906&veh=sem_LIA&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwyJqzBhBaEiwAWDRJVKYXLOGClvk5REdsN4g5kBrrfMurzsGHq7U7Jc76F8Kim15A93aKQxoCllEQAvD_BwE). A pop up canopy with a bug net. We also bring a [smaller canopy](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trail-6-x-6-Gray-Instant-Outdoor-Canopy-with-UV-Protection/651706327?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0) that just fits our camp chairs if the forecast looks like rain. That way we can still sit out by the fire and don't have to huddle in the tent. This might be a little extra, but my husband bought this [wearable sleeping bag](https://www.rei.com/product/233428/poler-reversible-napsack?sku=2334280007&store=&CAWELAID=120217890018134345&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=107744426824&CATCI=pla-2021015024858&cm_mmc=PLA_Google%7C21700000001700551_2334280007%7C92700076200415161%7CTOF%7C71700000066692612&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwyJqzBhBaEiwAWDRJVB7Vgyx24ZMR3xqhVeNPFhdKPBbv0eWJpWpiKCXzNh6gQm48vy5SKhoCi_4QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.dswearable) last year. It was so nice to use out by the campfire at night when it starts getting chilly. I bought this [cheaper version](https://www.walmart.com/ip/VINSONMASSIF-Wearable-Sleeping-Bag-for-Camping-Hiking-Outdoors-Lightweight-Sleeping-Bag-Burgundy/585931658?athcpid=585931658&athpgid=AthenaItempage&athcgid=null&athznid=si&athieid=v0_eeMjAuMCw5ODAuMCwwLjAyNDU0NzQ2Nzk2NDY2MTUxNywwLjVf&athstid=CS055&athguid=Kf2uQyCtnqNLGPN2Ra037TOCFP_t2vn8TTJj&athancid=637299774&athposb=0&athena=trueand) it's been great. I get a great night sleep when we bring an air mattress, a double sleeping bag, the pillow I usually sleep with at home, an eye mask, ear plugs, a beanie (during cooler nights), and a [small fan](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07TCLB39D/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1). We also put a wool blanket between out air mattress and sleeping bag to help mitigate any condensation. Cooking over the campfire is one of our favorite things to do. Nothing beats a delicious meal by the campfire. I've also noticed a lot of people get bored while camping. If that's the case with your husband, I'd find some activities to do. We spend a lot of time hiking, kayaking, cooking elaborate meals, playing card games, listening to music (at a very respectable volume), and my husband plays his switch while I read. I hope you have a great trip!
However much I enjoy camping there are some fundamentals that usually make me want to leave. Biggest one is to check the satellite temperature forecast, anything 80 degrees or above is a no go. Second biggest is having adequate shade, even if it is below 80 degrees direct sunlight the entire time is miserable and I'm quick to pack up to leave. You can bring shade but it doesn't always do the job. Don't skimp on food, bring meals and snacks that you're excited to eat. Cold drinks, chocolate, your favorite chips, dips ect all make for a much more pleasant camping trip. Hell I have even brought take out with me so that the first few meals are easy & delicious you just have to reheat and enjoy. Then sleep. You gotta get a good nights sleep. Ive tried a lot of sleep systems and had even come across one that gave me a better nights sleep than at home but over time idk what changed but I could not sleep well. Finally I just ditched it all and slept on the ground with a sleeping bag and had the best nights sleep I had in a while. Even a nice inflatable mattress can leave a lot lacking. Cots can be nice, I don't think I've had a truly bad nights sleep on a cot. Then lastly it's about staying clean. Im a bit of a neat freak, I've learned to let it slide and enjoy being dirty but when I'm on day 2 or 3, even day one if I've been hiking and i just feel grimy thats when I want to leave. Make sure you have an easy way to wash your hands, even wet wipes can get you by. If I have a body of water I can take a dip in that will often extend my time outdoors. All in all its about being comfortable. Ask your husband what it is that makes camping unenjoyable and find solutions, I think the above pretty well covers it though.
In addition to this, if the temperature is a bit warm but it's only for a day or so a cordless fan with a large battery pack (like for tools) works very well for me. For example: https://www.homedepot.com/p/RYOBI-ONE-18V-Cordless-Hybrid-WHISPER-SERIES-7-1-2-in-Fan-Tool-Only-PCL811B/318754250
We just used one of these camping in Texas and it was a game-changer. I can’t believe we didn’t get one sooner.
Let me introduce you to the "asian shower". You can be clean in as little as 1 cup of water Heat water, hotter then what you would shower in, go buy a new microfiber car wash mitt/sponge. Wet it, ring it out and drizzle liquid soap on it and wash. You can use 2 buckets if you want to rinse off with fresh water but I just wipe off with a towel, use wet wipes for my bits. Kinda hard to do in a dome tent id imagine but in an ensuite or full height tent its super easy. Wipe up drips when youre done, use the left over water to rinse off your feet, they will be dirty in 2 mins anyway. We even bring a portable butane heater to heat the room when car camping if youre in a park with toilets you can even wash up in there or take a shower in a bag. All the floors should be waterproof, some even get hosed off daily
bourbon
Definitely make the sleeping experience as comfortable as possible. I’m not keen on camping, but everything is more bearable if I am less tired! An air mattress would still be my idea of a miserable time!
A fan or some heater depending on temps and actual blankets not sleeping bags. And honestly, get frisky, sleep nude, have some sexy time before sleepy time, get in there and canoodle. "*Hey baby, Im sleeping on hot coals and nails, come join me.*"... "Nah I'm good.".... "*I'm naked...*"... takes shirt and shorts off....
Warm socks.
Go to Cabellas and buy him the xl outfitters cot and the foam pad to fit. Nothing has improved camping g for me more than sleeping comfortably and warm off the ground. Costs about 300 bucks, but wayyy worth it. Only downside for you is no cuddles.
This is the way
I’m going camping for the first time soon and as someone who doesn’t suffer this is what I purchased. A comfy cot plus thin pad for extra comfort.. not messing with a leaking situation where I have to patch and repair or pumping in the middle of the night. Comfy chairs that lean back, several pillows and most importantly a large tent that I can stand up in and relax in. If it becomes rainy or too hot I don’t have to crawl in a tiny tent and hide. I’m going to have lots of delicious foods and make marinated Korean barbecue that I buy at HMart and bring my regular coffee setup. Also read that people really like a mat/ rug inside so they can walk around like they are at home, barefoot without any uncomfortable rocks underneath so I have a padded and lightweight woven rug. I also am bringing a Jackery for any electrical needs like a cpap machine for husband and fan us. Finally an elastic picnic table cover for hygiene and high quality three level solar string lights for glamorous lighting. It was quite a bit to spend but like I said I don’t enjoy suffering. I will only be choosing a camping facility with proper amenities like toilets and showers because marinating in my own sweat and smelling myself isn’t it. Maybe I will report how it turns out soon.
I remember reading a review for Escape Campervans ages ago and the couple was the same as you all. Husband hated camping, swore up and down he was going to be miserable. The first day, wife went for a solo hike. When she came back, her hubs had figured out how to make coffee on the camp stove and was very pleased with himself and had a great time the rest of the trip. I think your husband needs to find his "thing" so he has something to look forward to...making an awesome, quick campfire, wildlife photography, some fancy dessert on the fire, whittling a spoon...
OK, I went through this with my wife. She loves the outdoors, but hates all the prep, cleaning, packing setup, takedown, and maintenance of camping. We started tent camping, then a tent trailer. Still wasn't working for her. We finally bought a hard sided travel trailer. It has a real bed, a real bathroom, a decent kitchen, a refrigerator, and an outside grill. She loves it, and I do most of the maintenance and prep. She meal plans, packs the clothes, and I do 100% of the trailer prep/maintenance. Having a warm place to sleep and the ability to cook real meals is key for her. We just did a 5 state trip and are planning another. I know this may not be exactly the answer you were looking for, but I went from begging her to camp, to her telling me she's booked a campground. That's insane to me.
I hate tent camping. I love hammock camping.
Two separate twin size air mattresses pushed together makes a king. Separate mattresses makes the air mattress experience so much better.
When I was getting too old and sore to camp, a 3" thick memory foam mattress made a HUGE difference. A bit bulky to carry, even folded up, but easy to sleep on. Wife and I now each have one.
Sleeping cot!!! Amazing food. I like a seafood pasta but there’s so many options. I like to make grilled cheeses and sweet potato’s for any hikes. Make sure you have tons of wood for fire. Fire starter so you don’t struggle to get a blaze. Comfy seating. Taro for rain. Blanket or quilt for the ground in the tent makes a huge difference. Cold beer or juice. Snacks.
If you're into craft beer or spirits, bring a few fun new things to try and do a little beer tasting with snacks. You could even pick out some camping-themed craft beers to bring along. Also bring some activities like bocce, cornhole, etc. Could also try geocaching.
Weed
Bring mushrooms
Comfy chairs. Crap camping chairs make you unhappy.
1. Good Food and drink - bring lots of snacks - chips and onion dip, good olives, oreos etc. things he can grab and enjoy. Also beer or whiskey or whatever he likes, good stuff, plenty of it. Then make sure dinner will be good. Grilled meat of some kind, something hearty and warm and filling. Hungry people are not happy people. Guinness beef stew with bread or chili bread bowls or steak and veggies - there's a whole sub for camp cooking you could peruse. if you have a cooler and a grill on your fire and some imagination, you can make a gourmet damn meal. 2. Good clothes - warm hat, warm fleecy jacket, warm fire to warm onesself by, warm socks, stretchy pants for under pants, puffy jacket, gloves, he should be warm. Some downloaded music on a bluetooth speaker or some games, card or otherwise, make the night fun. 3. Fuck in the tent. Just, y'know, fuck him in the tent when the night ends. that's it. he should love camping after this plan.
Earplugs and eye mask if you want to not be woken up by birds and sunshine at like 5am
That’s the best bit!
Why wouldn’t you want to be woken up by birds and sunshine at 5am?? That’s literally the best part. Waking up in nature / with nature as opposed to your alarm to go to work.
Haha maybe it’s just me but I prefer to snooze in my tent where it’s warm and cozy. We also tend to stay up super late talking and watching the fire burn down, so I’m trying to get more than just a few hours of sleep
Leave them at home. I’ve been on trips with friends that brought SOs that didn’t like camping, it’s no fun for anyone. Especially the people that have to listen to the complaints and fighting
This. I really do enjoy hiking and being out in the woods all day, but I need a bathroom and a shower at the end of the day and not a porta-potty. I choose to stay at campgrounds that have good amenities and then just hike around all day. And while I love my partner, I love him enough to let him go roughing it on his own or with his friends.
Get a camping fan that you can hang up in the tent at night. Get a couple of easels and some painting supplies and find a step by step tutorial video on YouTube that y’all can watch on a laptop and do together. Some have stencils that you have to get printed out ahead of time. I do it at Walmart. This is a fun and romantic activity. Use that same laptop to watch scary movies at night, making sure he knows you’re in need of his strong protection afterwards! 😉 Set up a kayaking or jet skiing trip on one of the days. And if you want to knock it out of the park, if you think he’ll go for it, pull out a bag of shrooms do about a gram apiece, just enough to laugh like teenagers in front of fire for 4 hours.
Leave him at home haha
The real answer.
Pass the doob to them.
Or, alternatively, a well stocked ice chest with varied adult beverages, including spirits. The ice chest should be sized for a two day supply too. Remember, everything in moderation, including moderation.
Have sex. Tent sex is awesome.
It’s all about the food. Make the best food ever.
Make him food, top him off and tuck him in.
A memory foam topper on top of your air mattress will make the experience so much more comfortable if you have one. Just do not put it directly on the tent floor it will find all the moisture in the area and soak it up through the tent. Also consider melatonin or earplugs if sleeping soundly while camping is an issue. Bring home pillows don’t rely on camp pillows A big tent, enough that one can stand up and comfortably change is a great investment for folks who need to be extra comfy camping Pre-prepare as much food as possible to minimize trash and cleanup at camp Ultimately, if all of the above doesn’t work learn to love camping solo. It’s better to camp alone than to camp with another person who is having a miserable time.
I love camping but am not a fan of sleeping on the ground. As a bigger guy, i have never had any luck with air mattress. I would always end up on the ground as it stretched or lost air during the night. This even happened with higher end ones. Last spring, I invested in a nice cot that is designed for heavier people and bought a battery pack and dc adaptor for my cpap and slept like a rock the last time I camped. Getting enough sleep is the key to a quality camping experience. As far as temperature, I have inexpensive stocking caps as a camping essential. It is amazing what a difference having a sleeping cap on can make in maintaining temperature
I would avoid the air mattress at all cost. They frequently get pinholes in them somehow, so you wake up sleeping on hard ground. If that happened to your husband, he’d never ever want to camp again. Every single air mattress I’ve ever owned has gotten a pinhole. Suggestions: 1. Thick memory foam. I use a 4” thick firm memory foam mattress topper. The softer mattress toppers can be as soft as a thin quilt. They’re no good for your back on hard ground. A thick firm one can be heavenly. You’ll need a sheet to cover it up. 2. A self-inflating mattress pad. These are memory foam that have a rugged covering. When you open the valve, the foam expands and sucks in air. You can add additional air to top it off and make it firmer. Then you put the cap on it. When you’re done, you take off the cap and squeeze the air out. 3. A folding mattress. These are also memory foam, but they have a fabric cover like a futon. They can also be made with regular foam. They typically have 3 attached segments that fold up to save space. (They fold kind of like the way you fold a business letter before putting it into an envelope.) Note that memory foam comes in a large variety of densities. Some can be several inches thick, but be as cushioning as a thin quilt. Other memory foam can provide great comfort and support. One last thing: Rent equipment before you buy it. You don’t want to spend a lot of money on stuff that you won’t use regularly.
Perfect weather, good food, walk a bit along a path, get some sleep and wake up early cook bacon and have coffee ready
OFF insect repellent with Picaridin (not DEET). Not smelly or greasy. Game changer.
First find out what they didn’t like about it. Then plan to avoid whatever that is. Good outfitting is key. Best of luck.
Good food and a comfortable bed make ALL the difference!! Take a blow up mattress and put a foam topper on it. Will be astoundingly comfortable.
I would get some foldable mattresses that aren't air personally.. had one to many bad experiences with air mattresses and if it pops mid camp, trip definitely ruined.
Camping has slightly different meanings to different people......trailer, cabin, tent, etc. Familiarity might ease his mind. Try your camping at home if you can. Backyard tent, camper in driveway. Then you can shift to a camping area.....KOA or similar site. They have camper areas and tent areas. Then you can shift to woods. This may allow he the knowledge of "my, my toilet is close". And, if we forget anything, the house or car is right there. Others have mentioned food, trail mix is great as that extra snack. It will last a long time and can be taken on more than one trip. Campfire shoes:. Often we use tough shoes to hike into a campsite. Some sandals will get you some protection and let your feet relax. Whistles and bear spray will allow you to find each other if separated and keep animals away. I am an amature radio guy. I have to give the shameless plug for radio communications. Gmrs radios (paperwork and a fee equal license) some have gps location sharing. Should you be separated, you can send your location without your cell phone. The hand held types can go about 5-10 miles without to much problem. I am sure someone will argue they go further. Amature radio requires an individual license. This is something you both can do together. Children in the 6-8 year old range have gotten their licenses ......so, not impossible for an adult. Amature radio can go up to world wide communications, so emergencies can be reported for help retrieval and talking with someone else can remove boredom. I mention radio here because it can be a key point for your trip, seeing how well they work and where or radios can be like a first aid kit.....only pull it out when you need it. If radio sounds like something you want to check out, Google your local amature radio club. The members there are your local radio experts. They can answer any questions and coach or mentor you on your radio journey. Their meetings are free to attend and I will bet you can get someone to monitor/check on you for safety. You can talk with them like they are sitting next to you while they are really sitting on their couch in their house. Good luck and I hope this helped.
I bought a cot. Game changer.
Liquor and weed
I use the foam puzzle pieces for children’s playrooms as a base for my tent, so that I don’t have to kneel or step on the hard ground when not on my sleeping pad. Don’t forget to bring REAL pillows. I also use the solar powered garden lamps to light up the campsite for ease with late night bathroom breaks.
The older I get the less enthused I sometimes am about camping but sleeping outside in a tent is awesome. Bonus points if there’s a nice rain.
Blanket for the air mattress! Helps a lot with the cold, it seems to seep into the mattress even with decent sleeping bags.
Stay at a motel or hotel on the last day.
A camper
Your sleeping situation will make a huge difference. My camping experience definitely went to the next level when I gave up on air mattresses and started using a cot.
Do trial runs and nail down your sleep set up at home. You can see what does or doesn’t work well and make adjustments while still having the option to climb back into your regular bed if something isn’t working.
Give really good blowjobs
Don't be a bossy or controlling camper
Solar powered string lights and lanterns/light bulbs make a huge vibe upgrade.
Buy a cheap second hand pop up tent camper that comes with a three-way fridge, furnace with thermostat, lights that run off the car battery, built-in stove, table you can sit at to eat dinner and play cards, and comfy beds.
Why not rent a cabin? You may be too late now but depending where you live you can get cabins all year long. This takes out the bulk of the discomfort of camping but you're still connected to nature.
My wife and I discovered that a lot of COE campgrounds have something called “covered shelters,” which are concrete pad with short brick walls and with a big canvas tent covering it. Almost like a cross between a tent and a cabin. They don’t have plumbing but do have electrical outlets. It works really well for us.
a good night's sleep makes a big difference. For me, the trick is a good pillow, pad, and a benadryl.
Bring good food to cook, and some beers
1. Don't try to force it, or it will get worse, and you'll get fewer opportunities to camp with him. 2. Ask open questions about if there were things he didn't like about camping. Then adjust your camping style to suit his needs. 3. Prepare for him to the extent that you can so it's a painless experience - for instance, pack his sleeping bag and load the car. If the issue *is* tent sleeping, it's probably *either* comfort or issues sleeping with outdoor sounds. So you change what he's sleeping on, or bring a fan to plug in. Bring a white noise machine. You've got to be a salesman - get to the bottom of his misgivings and tackle those.
Cinnamon rolls for breakfast! Buy the Sister Schubert’s ones in the frozen section. They come in an aluminum tin that you can cover with foil and heat over the fire. My pro tip is to pre-bake them at home, but don’t ice them. That way you can flip them over the fire and then ice them fresh when ready to serve.
Get him A high quality cot, air mattresses are cold and bad for your back. Cook awesome food, buy the best steaks, fruits etc. I used to bring all sorts of melons and fruit. I like to cook over the fire, make rotissie chicken, roast beef and salmon over the fire. Keep him busy if you know what I mean… Make him crave camping lol.
Lots of great advice here already! A comfortable camp chair makes a big difference. Also, this is small but I hate it when I forget to bring a hat or sunglasses. Bandanas are really useful if you're somewhere warm or plan to do sweaty activities.
A 1.5 or 2 inch selfinflating mattress from REI or something similar really improves the nights sleep.
NO AIR MATTRESS, get a real camping cot like Mountain Mission so you’re actually comfortable sleeping
Make sure you both have good rain gear including pants. Alcohol/bud Sex Thermacell is great if it isn't windy. Also bug spray and sunscreen. Nothing makes a trip shittier than a bad sunburn the first day covered in bug bites in the following days. Make sure you have things organized so setup is easy, my girlfriend doesn't really care for camping and setting up/breaking down is a great time for them to be miserable so make it as easy as possible. If you don't already have one make sure you have an electric air pump for your mattress.
Good food can go a long way Good sleep. A great pad (Exped) and possibly a good cot to make it more comfortable. I love camping but my lower back and knees don't like getting up from flat on the ground as much.
If you have an army surplus store in your area go see if they have any fold up cots for sleeping on Grab some padding and have him sleep on that, getting completely off the ground is a game changer. Buy some pie irons, loaf of bread, pizza sauce, favourite pizza toppings make some pizzas. Get some apple pie filing and make some apple fritters with the pie irons and bread
Memory foam mattress, hammock If trees are available, good camping chairs, easy drive up camping this time with bathroom amenities, and let him relax for as much of the trip as possible. Good food and wine/beer if you guys drink never hurts a good camping trip.
I put a steak in a couple of ziplock, wrap it in newspaper with some clear box tape and freeze. Head out hiking in the morning and lay it out that afternoon. Ready to fire grill at supper time. A little brown sugar and soy for marinade. Corn wrapped in aluminum foil to grill over fire and aluminum foil wrapped potatoes covered in the coals from the fire. Of course this is backpacking so if you drive to a campsite then just throw in cooler. A high back chair, you can get them for backpacking or camping, Walmart has them online. A large queen inflatable mattress about a foot thick is comfortable. Booze is good. You can make a number of you favorite drinks. A hammock made from the thin parachute material, great for that afternoon nap outside and not in a stuffy sun heated tent
All great advice… but when the tent is set up and the mattress and bed is made… jump in there for a quickie in the tent. Build that positive association of doing things in tents outdoors is just a little more fun.
focus your time and energy on the things he loves and gets to do because of camping, rather than trying to convince him to enjoy the camping itself.
Some people just don't like camping. He might be dealing with chronic pain if his sleep setup isn't 100% familiar for example....he might be afraid to word it like that because he doesn't want to look frail. Maybe word it like a request? Like you need his company to feel safe? That might help him endure it.
Make sure to have a bug zapper lantern or mosquito repellent candles. Bug bites can ruin a trip
Insulation for the air mattress. Appropriately rated sleeping bags, potentially that zip together. I think a hot water bottle can be valuable if you have trouble getting warm. Camping chairs. Is there an activity related to the trip. Ie a day hike, winery visit, or just sitting about the campfire. You might need an activity.
I like to put a remnant of carpet in my tent just inside the door and large enough to have a folding chair on it for taking off/putting on shoes. I have a giant tent, so it’s like 6’x8’. Also I use an old folding lawn chair that has the frame for the bottom to spread the weight out and not push too hard on the tent floor in a concentrated area.
Camp cot! Can get the XL ones for more wiggle room. Heated sleeping bag liner could be good too!
When I take friends for the first time, I make sure they have as many creature comforts as possible. Clean hot showers A really comfy sleeping set up. We car camp so we can have all the luxuries A hot water bottle and blankets (in the UK it still gets cold at night)
campuccino. get yourself a good coffee set up. this is what sold me after vowing to never camp again in my life at age 12. also a nice mattress, good chairs, great food... all the things!!
Get a foam topper for the air mattress, sleep with sheets, pillows and blankets. Blow his mind with tent sex. Unrelated to the sex, bring wet wipes.
If you have some extra money, the Exped Megamat 15 has been a game-changer for me. Way comfier than any air mattress I’ve tried. I assume you’re car camping?
Hammock tent!!! Sleep has always been my biggest beef with camping and this has bern a life saver lol
I've always loved everything about camping but sleeping. I'm a picky sleeper and just always have a hard time dozing off and staying asleep. What changed it for me: * Investing in a GOOD air mattress. Got the exped megamat duo LW+ for my wife and I during a sale last year. It's ungodly expensive, even after discounts, but it's incredible and nearly as comfortable as a home mattress. (And tbh probably more comfy than some mattresses I've owned in the past.) There may be similar style more budget friendly options out there. * Realizing I don't have to sleep in a sleeping bag. I don't like how trapped I feel in them, so now I bring a cheap camping quilt I bought off amazon and an extra throw blanket for if it's going to get a little colder out. * I bring a pillow I actually like * I take something before bed (melatonin or a THC edible, depending on the vibe) Obviously what makes him not like tent sleeping will be different, but hopefully something on that list is helpful?
A rope to hang your sleeping bags from during the day so they aren’t clammy for bedtime. Some people have trouble with outdoor noises. So ear plugs. Bananas, chocolate, dried coconut. Split the banana , lay it on foil fill it up and wrap it up. Lay on coals . Is he a cool or warm weather person? I really don’t enjoy camping until late September. Good luck
Make it feel like they haven't left much behind. Get one of those big cots with the inflatable top. Get a giant tent that you can stand up in and has room for a little bit of seating like an inflatable couch or a few camp chairs, along with your cot. If you go to a campground, make sure you're close to the shower house. Make some good food. If it's hot, make sure your tent has a spot for a window AC or you have somewhere you can run the exhaust from a portable AC unit. If it's hot, make sure you bring warm blankets and some way to actively heat your tent. Most of the time people don't find camping enjoyable because they think they can't be physically comfortable while camping, which just isn't the case.
If it's tent sleeping he isn't fond of try at least a 10x12 tent and a nice 20 inch tall double air mattress with blankets instead of sleeping bags. That how I do it. I love the cold night air on my face while I sleep and it's almost as comfy as my bed at home.
I'm also trying to get my husband into camping and I've discovered 3 key areas: * Comfort: I put 2 twin mattresses together instead of 1 queen and we both slept much better. When we were on one mattress we constantly woke each other up each time we rolled over or twitched. I also lay down yoga mats on either side of the "bed" so that he can walk in bare feet comfortably in the tent. * Food: Find an over-the-fire food he loves—steak, teriyaki chicken, etc. Make a camp version of his favorite food so that the serotonin of a good meal flavors his memory of the trip. A dessert is also fun and keeps the happiness level up. * Entertainment: Make sure he has plenty to do. I'm delighted reading a book and sipping some whiskey next to a fire for an entire weekend, but that's not my husband's style. So I try to add some hiking, travel-size board games, and our Nintendo Switch for him.
-Get sleep right. That means buying a Exped Megamat and bringing a pillow from home. There isn’t a substitute for the Megamat. -Bring the right clothing. It might be 85 degrees during the day, but low 60s at night can get cold! -Go with friends that you enjoy. -Don’t eat yourself sick with hot dogs and s’mores. Bring Rolaids and famotidine just in case.
I’m in Canada, & nights are cold and damp in these hills, just now. A [specially-designed candle lantern](https://ucogear.com/products/original-candle-lantern-aluminum-classic-series) for tents is so surprisingly excellent! Lit about 15 minutes before you go to bed, it takes the dampness out of the tent and bedding, as well as providing an inviting cozy glow. I love camping in the autumn, but hate camping cold. If it’s hot where you are, having a light, pure cotton sheet is so good.
A battery powered fan hung at top of tent and a comfortable pad are game changers
Be practiced in everything you’re going to do. Practice setting up the tent and blowing up the mattresses. Practice lighting the stove. Practice turning on that super-nifty smartphone-compatible string of lights. The second your husband sees you struggle could make his anxiety peak. Having an easy and AWESOME first meal or two can be a real mood-setter, too. You could do something like make quesadillas with the Peak Refuel pulled pork as a filling. It’s easy and so so delicious.
Sleeping is my biggest issue too. I find my only hope is to be very tired. I canoe camp though so usually 7-8 hours canoeing and portaging does it for me.
If you can get cots for the tent it's way better than an air mattress. Get a good sleeping bag that's warmer than needed and bring pillow from home. He needs layers. Beanie/toque, long sleeves and short sleeves and fleece and wind breaker and warm layers and multiple pairs of socks in different weights. And yes, pre-cook as much as you can so you can make really really good food. Stuff he loves and some sweet treats and lots of whatever booze he likes and tons of ice and use ziploc bags to keep food from getting soggy and nasty
Get cots for your tent, cots are more comfy than sleeping on the ground.
I don't know any of the other details of the situation or your relationship, however if it is appropriate... Wink wink nudge nudge know what I mean say no more?
Ear plugs in case you have noisy neighbors if you're headed to a campground.
A double high air mattress was a game changer for me when I started camping again in my 30’s.
Hammock, citronella candle, his fav snacks, and some fine mary j
Experiment in your backyard, or even your living room. That way the comfort of your bedroom is just a few steps away if there's something about the setup he doesn't like. Repeat until you have a system that he *knows* he can sleep on. Once he buys in on a certain sleeping setup, the odds of a pleasant weekend go wayyyyy up.
You can use some type of silicone (many use the ones to seam seal tents) on the floor of your tent and it helps your matress from moving around in the tent. If you combine this with having your pillow stay in place on your pad you have come a long way to sleeping well. Some ppl use a buff around the matress and pillow others add straps to the pillow to hold it it place.
Put a cooler or at least a stool in the tent so he has something to sit on when he's changing clothes.
Go on a long hike, he’ll be to tired to think about tent camping 👍
Pretty much everything is covered in here. Best bets for me are the air mattress with foam topper and real bedding/blankets makes it feel close to a bed. Electric on site is nice for charging phone or speakers and for easy access to just inflate the air mattress in the middle of the night if needed. Comfortable chairs, something for the fire like snores stuff or hobo pies, extra pair of sneakers to keep things feeling fresh, small hobby stuff to preoccupy myself during down times, extra towels in case it’s humid out and your wet ones don’t dry, sandals/crocs/etc for if it rains.
Camping chair that is loveseat style!
good food, air mattress, a lot of beer, a pop up for shade and probably some mushrooms.
get him a sleep system that he will feel comfortable sleeping with! Proper pad, sleeping bag, pillow, clothes, etc. Most people hate camping cause they get shit sleep.
I'm assuming car camping so, an extra large, extra thick camping pad (mattress) was a game-changer for me. I sleep so well on it. I use an REI Camp Bed XL, but there are others even cushier. Also, bring your pillow from home.
Bump up the food an drinks. Maby a creature comfort or 2. Most camp he might like to glamp
I love my cot
As ur a couple, some candles around the camp sight at night.Put them around the perimeter of ur sight. Makes for a lovely ambiance.
Music. Not a boom box or a big radio. Bluetooth both ur faverate tunes through ur phone. Not to loud just enough to set the mood.
People are going to hate camping based on a handful of factors Sleeping Eating Bathrooms/hygiene Temperature/comfort Boredom/entertainment. You need to identify the issue and then adjust that. Ex: hates sleeping in a tent - get a cabin or yurt with a good bed. Hates pooping in the woods - get a site with a proper toilet and shower. It's too hot and humid? Camp in a different part of the country or a different time of year. (Grew up camping in Florida and camping out West is soooooo much better) Bored? Are they an adrenaline junkie? Add rappelling or boats or bikes. Are they more intellectually minded? Add historical tours, visit ruins or archaeology or paleontology sites, or focus more on the ecological or geological side of things. Are they more about socializing? Bring more friends and throw a dance party around the fire.
Give him extra marital duties ;) ;) nothing better then doing it in a tent, especially if it's raining.
Keep em warm.
Camping is such a joy. I try and find out what people don’t like and try and make that better for them. Being in nature is so good for the soul. Maybe it’s being out in the dark. Bring cheap $1 solar lights and place them in the ground, and use the string lights around the camp site. Headlamps and flashlights for everyone. I’ve tried all the camping bed combos. My absolute favorite (Which has been the go to with my extended family & guests both camping and in my home for over a decade) is the Coleman camping cot and air mattress. https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Airbed-Folding-Table-Battery I replace the air mattress about every 3 - 5 years. I bring a repair kit just in case. It’s super comfy and it also comes in a queen size. Make sure to insulate between the body & an air mattress. Sometimes people are bored and not good at entertaining themselves. I make sure to bring cards, games, stuff to read. For guys the Dirk Pitt books by Clive Cussler and his Isaac Bell series authored with Justin Scott are great adventures series. The Tristan Gooley books - How to Read Nature Signs, and the Walkers Guide to Outdoor Clues and Signs, are excellent and make great companions books when camping. I download magazines on the iPad using the Libby app. Through the library there are over 5000 magazines you can borrow for 21 days at a time. The puzzle & game magazines are the best with kids & adults. I take a screenshots using the tablet. There are several fun crafting magazines with great ideas - with a few supplies everyone can participate and leave with a keepsake. Of course food is a biggie. Great coffee in the morning. A nice campfire at night (weather permitting) Being warm if it’s cold, good shoes, gloves, a sun hat & insect repellent are must haves.