Differences in camping.

If you're new to the camping adventure scene then you should know that there are a few different terms for camping or camping related activities.

Just to name a few -

Car Camping - This term is used to describe what the majority of Americans see as camping. This involves getting to and from and using your car as a vessel for you and your gear and not really ever being too far away. It can also be the place where you cook and sleep.

Camping - A general term used to mostly describe the use of a tent and and other camping gear. It is also used to describe car camping, again a very general term.

Back Country Camping -  This is generally used to describe a trip into the back country where a vehicle either cannot go or isn't allowed to go. All the tools need for camping is carried in by backpack, snowmobile, horse, bike, etc. Your tent, sleep gear, cooking gear and survival gear is all contained in a system that allows portability.

Backpacking - This intertwines with the term 'Back Country Camping' a little bit. Americans view backpacking as a way of getting into the back country on foot either on an out and back trip or as some sort of a looped trip. For the most part the time spam for back packing is 3 days or longer and a certain mileage is covered. The rest of the world views backpacking as a way to travel from country to country in search of different views and experiences. Most Americans might view this as multi-country backpacking. Using a tent and staying with people or hostels are very common while moving frequently from spot to spot with no where or nothing in particular to do.

Ultralight Backpacking - Using the lightest and smallest gear you can be comfortable with as well as using techniques to save on weight. For example, many serious ultralight backpackers don't cook meals, use sleeping pad or take a full tent set up. They can survive on such a small amounts of gear. Not recommended for beginners, it can take years to perfect ultralight backpacking skills and knowledge with a fair amount of sacrificing comfort.

Trek, or Trekking - Same as hike or hiking. Can but doesn't have to involve camping.

Mountaineering - Back country camping and climbing mixed. Also can be generalized as climbing, not to be confused with Rock Climbing. Carrying all your gear and camping on a mountain on your assent and descent.

There are plenty of other terms used to describe camping, but if you're getting started and you need information choosing the right term for camping will help out when seeking help from others.

-Jeff

Get a good bag.

Both kinds of bags.