First-Time Camper? Here's What You Really Need to Know (And What NOT to Worry About)

Thinking about your first camping or backpacking trip but feeling a little overwhelmed? You're not alone! We at Near Zero have a wide range of outdoorsmen, from beginners to experts. So, whether it's the fear of wild animals, not knowing what gear to buy, or just not wanting to feel totally unprepared, it's easy to let the unknown keep you from stepping outside.

The good news? Nature is a lot more welcoming than you might think—and with the right mindset (and a few smart gear choices), your first outdoor adventure can be an awesome, empowering experience.

Don't Stress Too Much About Wildlife—Seriously

Yes, bears, snakes, and other creatures live in the wild—but encounters are incredibly rare, especially if you're hiking in well-trafficked areas or designated campgrounds. Simple habits like storing food properly, staying on trails, and making a little noise as you hike help keep wildlife at a distance.

Tip: Keep your food in a sealed bag or bear canister; never store it in your tent. Problem solved.

You Don't Need to Be an Expert (or Ultra Fit)

You don't have to be a hardcore survivalist to enjoy the outdoors. Start with a short overnight trip to a nearby campground or an easy trail. Focus on enjoying nature, not covering crazy distances or roughing it.

It's also okay to bring creature comforts—especially on your first trip.

Start With the Right Gear—Not All the Gear

You don't need to drop thousands of dollars to get outside. Our complete backpacking kits and bundles are a great way to start, and if you only need a few items, we sell each item separately. Here are the key items:

• Backpack – Comfortable, lightweight, and fits your body size. The DEAN 60L is perfect for this!

• Tent or Shelter – Look for something easy to set up, weatherproof, and light if you're backpacking. Our Near Zero tents are less than 4 lbs, durable, and come in sizes for 1-3 people!

• Sleeping Bag & Pad – A cozy bag like the Peralta 25°F Sleeping Bag and a lightweight sleeping pad make all the difference in how well you sleep. Near Zero's insulated sleeping pad is quiet, lightweight, and easy to take up and take down.

• Cook Kit – A compact stove like our tiny camping stove - Mini Stove, fuel, and a simple pot will do just fine for basic meals.

• Water Filtration – A small, portable filter or water purification tablet keeps you hydrated safely.

• Headlamp or Flashlight – Trust us, you'll want one. Our motion sensor headlamp is excellent for keeping your hands free and saving power so you can use it during your whole trip!

• First Aid Kit – Just in case.
  

Tip: Brands like Near Zero offer curated gear bundles that take the guesswork out of buying the right stuff—perfect for beginners.

You'll Learn As You Go

No one gets it perfect the first time. Your tent might be a little crooked, you might forget the matches (oops), or you might overpack snacks (not a bad thing). That's all part of the fun—and every trip teaches you something new.

Nature Is the Reset Button You Didn't Know You Needed

There's something about sleeping under the stars, cooking over a campfire, and waking up to birdsong that hits differently. It's peaceful, grounding, and a great way to disconnect from screens and reconnect with yourself (and your family or friends).

Just Go For It!

The biggest hurdle for first-time campers and backpackers is often mental. But once you take that first step outside, you'll realize how capable you really are—and how much you've been missing.

So whether you're solo or bringing the family, don't wait for the "perfect" moment. Grab some gear, pick a weekend, and go. The outdoors are calling—and yes, you can answer.