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Introduction to Wild Camping in a Tent for Beginners

Introduction to Wild Camping, Maigmo
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Wild Camping, Puig Campana summit

What is wild camping?

“Wild camping” in this article refers to sleeping in a tent (or bivvy bag / bivouac sack) in a natural environment, away from an official campsite and civilisation.

It involves carrying everything that you need in a backpack, hiking to a remote location, then setting up your tent to spend the night under the stars.

This article refers to ethical wild camping following “leave no trace” principles, and it focuses on immersing yourself in the natural world

There are no facilities in nature (e.g. no bathrooms, no cooking facilities, no supermarket, no drinking water, no waste bins, etc).

Therefore, you must be self-sufficient and manage these activities yourself in a responsible way that minimises the human effect on the environment.

Introduction to Wild Camping, La Safor

What wild camping isn´t

If this is your vibe, then official campsites with designated cooking areas would be more suitable

Introduction to Wild Camping, coastal camp

Why do people go wild camping?

It is not a campsite

Wild camping is a completely different experience to camping on an official campsite or at a recreation area with minimal facilities.

On an official campsite there are people, children and dogs creating noise potentially 24 hours a day!

Wild camping allows you to escape from civilisation, leaving the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind.

Connect with nature

You can truly connect with nature, and relax in a tranquil environment with only the sounds of nature to accompany you.

With the absence of light pollution in a remote location, you can see the night sky like never before.

In the right mountain location, you can enjoy full daylight hours, watch the sunset in the evening, and wake up to the sun rising the following day.

Introduction to Wild Camping, , mesh tent

Empowerment through new experiences

Every night in the wild is a new adventure that offers an immense sense of freedom and reinvigorates the soul.

Wild camping can also be an empowering experience, enhancing your feeling of independence and self-sufficiency.

The great outdoors

While out in nature, you can explore new areas and enjoy stunning landscapes.

You can also enjoy outdoor activities, engage in activities in your tent, or simply allow yourself some time to relax and recharge.

Introduction to Wild Camping, Castell de Castells

Who can you go wild camping with?

Many people enjoy wild camping alone to enjoy the peace and solitude.

It is also nice to do this activity with an intimate group of close friends.

However, it should not be carried out in big groups.

If you prefer doing outdoor activities with an expert, then check out my handpicked guided tours.

Introduction to Wild Camping, sunrise

How long can you go wild camping for?

You can enjoy wild camping for as many nights as you wish…but not in the same location.

It is acceptable to stay at a particular camping spot for one night only, so you must either walk or drive to find a different location for the following night´s wild camp.

Ideally, wild campers should set up their tent late at night, and pack up again early morning. This is to maintain discretion and minimise impact on the environment.

In reality, if I am in a particularly remote or well-hidden location, then I might arrive a little earlier to watch the sunset, or stay in bed a little longer the following day.

However, if it is necessary to leave early, then I might pack up and move to another location where I will make my breakfast and enjoy a coffee there instead.

Introduction to Wild Camping, Murcia

When to go wild camping

You can potentally go wild camping any time.

However, the ideal time to go can depend on several factors such as:

  • Personal preference
  • The weather conditions
  • The availability and quality of your hiking and camping equipment

.

Check out some of my Essential Outdoor Gear for your outdoor adventures.

Summer

My favourite time to go wild camping is during hot weather, because I can travel light, enjoy long days, sunbathe, and swim in mountain water.

However, it is not practical to do very strenuous hikes while carrying camping gear in the mid-summer heat in the south of Spain.

Consequently, I am limited to camping locations involving shorter and easier hikes, ideally with some shade enroute.

Introduction to Wild Camping, Pyrenees

Winter

I also enjoy wild camping in winter months, despite my dislike for the cold!

Adverse weather

I sometimes like to enjoy wild camping during harsh weather.

I am able to do this comfortably because I have a technical sleeping bag, warm clothing, and a tent that can withstand extreme conditions, such as 80mph winds, heavy rain and snow.

However, beginner wild campers should definitely avoid these conditions!

I love falling asleep to the sound of heavy rain on my tent. However, I don’t like actually hiking in the rain, or being in a tent with my wet outdoor gear, so I only go wild camping if I can reach a suitable location before the rain begins.

Introduction to Wild Camping, bivvy, The French Alps

Is wild camping safe?

“Don´t you get scared wild camping on your own?” …This is a question that I am often asked, and it is always with reference to wild animals.

There are no bears in the Costa Blanca!

There are animals such as  deer, foxes, snakes and insects, but they don´t usually pose a threat.

There was one occasion, howveer, when I felt unsafe because I had inadvertently set up for wild camping in a wild boar foraging area. These animals don´t normally pose a threat either, but due to their size, strength and tusks, they could cause serious damage, even accidentally.

Introduction to Wild Camping, Guadalest

Is wild camping legal in Spain?

In Spain, wild camping is largely prohibited! You can read more about this here.   

In the places where it is prohibited you could receive a big fine (if you get discovered).  

  • Beaches, private land, and natural parks are more likely to be patrolled and should definitely be avoided.
  • National parks may also be patrolled or visited by relevant authorities, since they are protected areas. However, these areas tend to be much larger, and be less accessible to vehicles.
  • Public land is the safest option if you are going to try wild camping in Spain. However, it is essential that you hike to a remote location, be discreet and leave no trace.
Introduction to Wild Camping, Muntesa scenery

Want to learn more about wild camping?

There are some more wild camping blog posts coming soon, relating to topics such as:

  • Wild Camping Equipment Checklist
  • List of Activities you can do while Wild Camping
  • Dangers of Wild Camping in Spain and How to do it Safely
  • Different Types of Locations for Wild Camping

.

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If you are ready to go wild camping in the Costa Blanca, then you can take a look at this List of wild camping locations in the Costa Blanca 

Introduction to Wild Camping, moonlight

 

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