The desert provides a unique experience for any outdoor adventurist from an amazing view of the stars to wondrous landscapes and wildlife. The desert also comes with challenges and risks for campers and hikers as this dynamic environment can change quickly from blazing sun to chilly nights, dangerous sandstorms and access to water. Here are some tips to have a safe and enjoyable camping experience in a desert area.
Prepare for temperature change – it’s not always hot in the desert as we might assume. Temperatures can change quickly from hot blazing days to nights below freezing. Be prepared with the right type of mummy sleeping bag and camp bedding. Make sure your sleeping bag has a temperature rating low enough to keep you warm at night. You’ll need sunscreen during the day, and possibly warm socks and thermal layers in the evening.
Have a plan for hydration – deserts are dry by nature and it is literally a matter of life or death to be sure that you have access to water. Make sure you know of any water sources along the route and know what type of water treatment filter you will be using. You should plan to have at least 3 to 5 quarts of water per day, per person. Sipping throughout the day is recommended rather than drinking a lot when you feel thirsty. It’s nice if you can keep a good rotomolded cooler in a car to have access to cold drinks. Cascade Mountain Tech offers super rotomolded coolers proven to keep ice for up to 10 days. As there probably is no access to ice anywhere nearby, packing enough in a good cooler is mandatory.
Hone your navigation skills - when camping or hiking a desert in a national park, you are likely to see signs on trails and landmarks to help guide your way. If you do happen to take a wrong turn, usually it is just an inconvenience that will add extra miles to your hike. Make sure you study your route thoroughly and take a compass and a map along with you.
Leave no trace - while the desert landscape may seem harsh to many, it is actually a delicate ecosystem. Plan, prepare and take extra care to avoid disturbing fauna and flora.
Protect your tent - a desert windstorm can be brutal on your tent as grains of sand carried through the wind can wreak havoc on tent fabrics. Think about setting up your tent in a shady spot with a lightweight tarp in a lighter color of fabric to prevent overheating.
Cascade Mountain Tech offers these tips for surviving a desert camping trip along with high-quality gear to make your trip enjoyable and safe. We offer a wide selection of trekking poles, camp chairs, camp bedding, super coolers and more. Contact us to learn more about our products and with any questions on your next outdoor adventure.
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