In 2020 a lot of people decided to give camping a try. For some, it was an experiment that they won’t likely repeat when air travel, cruises, and other crowded travel options are available again. But a lot of people learned, or already knew that camping makes them happy. As evidenced by the ubiquitous phrase “happy camper,” people are generally happy when they are camping. 

There are a lot of reasons we feel happier when we are camping, with the effects lasting even when we return home. Here are some advantages of camping and why they increase happiness. 

1. Sleep. Don’t get up until you wake up. Or, you know, get up and watch the sunrise. Just don’t wake me. There is no need for alarm clocks, just wake up when your body wants to. Waking to the sound of nature instead of an alarm clock is a great way to start your day.

2. Sunshine. You may know that sufficient Vitamin D is essential to well-being. But did you know that the sun provides Vitamin D without taking a pill or being concerned about what you eat - particularly if you don’t like seafood (many sources of the vitamin are fishes)? Just 10 to 30 minutes a day (don’t forget your sunscreen, especially if staying out longer), especially mid-day when the sun is at its peak, is ideal for increasing your Vitamin D levels naturally.

3. Fresh air. While you are outside, take some deep, cleansing breaths of fresh air. Notice the scents that you don’t ever get at home. Dirt, trees, water, clean air…

4. Nature. Sometimes we are stuck inside with school, work, or other requirements and we forget the awesomeness of nature. Listen to how many different bird songs you can hear. Look for shapes in the clouds. Gather leaves of different shapes. Being in nature has been shown to be associated with lower levels of stress. Did you know in Japan there is a trend of “forest bathing” that encourages time in the woods?

5. Activity. Science Daily reported on a study of over a million Americans over a five year period who felt fewer days of poor mental health when they exercised regularly. Again, it doesn’t take much. A few days a week of exercise just 45 minutes will do the trick. Combined with the sunshine and fresh air, it’s a winning combination! We like to take our bikes and explore the park we are visiting. It also improves sleep, so you can practice that sleeping-in part I mentioned above.

6. Unplug. I know. This is the hardest for me, too. We all have to admit, if we are honest with ourselves, that we spend too much screen time. Our necks, thumbs, legs, and eyes will appreciate the break. Work can wait. Or, if you need to work while on a trip, carve out a specific time to do it. And stick to that time so you can enjoy the trip. Another camping advantage is the reduction of lights. Instead of sitting in front of a TV all evening, light a fire and/or enjoy the stars.

7. Food. Somehow, food just tastes better when camping. Maybe because we build up our appetite with all that activity and fresh air. Maybe a hot dog on a campfire really is more delicious. Maybe just the act of cooking over a campfire gives us such a sense of accomplishment that we enjoy the fruits of our labor more. And we really don’t take the time to make a s’more when we aren’t camping, right?

8. Family time. This is pretty much related to unplugging. Not only the adults, but kids also have screens and distractions. Camping together, playing games, taking walks, cooking and eating as a family, are all great ways to bond. Allowing the kids to help with meals or to suggest activities helps them develop confidence and self-worth. Family time also gives adults a chance to nurture a love of nature in the younger generations.

9. Make friends. When we camp, we like to sit around the campfire with some extra chairs and a plate of cookies to offer. We call it being “camp flirts” and it often leads to wonderful conversations, and sometimes lasting friendships.

10. Make memories. When we get out there in nature, sleep well, get some activity, eat great food (like s’mores), and unplug from the stress of daily life, we make such memories. Some of those we can capture in photos, but some are best kept in our minds and in the stories we share around the next campfire.

Tony and I have learned that we need both “camping” trips and “traveling” trips. When camping, we need to unplug and enjoy down time. On the other hand, many of our travel trips have a goal  of learning and sharing tips and places with our audience and we work through those trips.