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More than three decades ago, my mom took me on my first camping trip. She was celebrating a year of sobriety and this excursion was completely uncharacteristic for my family. We hadnt spent a lot of time together during my childhood, so at eight years old, I was a little nervous about how this was going to go.
On the drive up, she told me that getting outside and being active had given her the space she needed to sort some things out. She explained that life was different in the woods, and that the rest of the world would just melt away. Skeptical, I helped her set up the tent silently pretending not to see all the spiders. Fighting back tears, I wondered what wed even eat while we were out there.
That first night, my mom unpacked what seemed like an entire kitchen. Relief washed over me as we sat by a fire roasting hot dogs, marshmallows and sipping on fresh water. Despite my initial trepidation, food tasted better, laughter felt deeper and sleep came easier than it had in a very long time. It was a pivotal moment in my life and Ill always be grateful for it.
The Benefits of Camping
We spend a lot of time hunched over smartphones and desks these days, so it shouldnt be surprising that stepping away is good for us. Being out in the fresh air, far from the hustle and bustle, can feel like a much-needed physical and mental detox. Along with that sense of wellness, here are some other benefits:
Theres just something about being out in the fresh air that can make you feel more alive. The weather can get a little brisk at night this time of year, but thats what flannel is for!
Food and Drinks Safety
Even if youre completely off the grid and unplugged from society, youve still got to eat. Of course, without modern amenities, food safety for campers can become a concern. You definitely want to make sure you pack the right gear to keep your food and drink safe, because who wants to get sick out in the wilderness?
Stanley
Its hard to imagine a more iconic brand than Stanley. When my mom unpacked the car all those years ago, it looked like she had raided the Stanley section of an outdoor camping store! Plus, weve all seen the Classic Legendary green vacuum bottle in films and television shows for decades.
You can easily set up base camp with your items stored safely in a cooler and then whip up your meals in some convenient camp cookware. Staying hydrated is easy with the Classic Trigger Action Mug, which is now available in two fall colors (Nightfall and Wine), or Ceramicvac bottle. You can even enjoy fresh brew on your hike with the Classic Travel Mug French Press. Im not a coffee drinker, but I do own the Adventure Happy Hour Cocktail Shaker Set; perfect for when a great day of adventuring calls for a nightcap!
Outdoor Cooking
While simple sandwiches are always a good option, you can use the unique opportunity to make fresh, delicious meals. Preparing something healthy doesnt require a gourmet kitchen you just need the right tools.
Camp Chef
Camp Chef specializes in portable, yet powerful, cooking gear for outdoor enthusiasts. They carry flat grills, camp stoves, fire pits, smokers, portable ovens and so much more. Cooking with cast iron even has health benefits, as I learned years ago after being encouraged to use it by my doctor following an anemia diagnosis.
Recently, a group of us headed to Jackson Hole for a few days and we used the Mini Dutch Oven to make our own chili a great option for people with individual preferences and dietary needs. At less than $25 its a great option because its affordable and versatile use it for stew, hot dogs and beans, or even a peach cobbler!
A Better Hot Dog
It takes a little more planning to prepare food while camping, so why not make it worth the effort? Ill admit that we keep things simple for breakfast when were on the go, but even if its just for one meal, well splurge on something extra special.
If youre a regular reader, youll know that I typically follow a keto diet. While its possible to be vegan or vegetarian on keto, most of us are heavy meat eaters. Whenever I can, I try to buy products that are as natural as possible, which is why Ive had KC Cattle Company on my radar for a while.
KC Cattle Company
This veteran-owned butcher shop carries incredible wagyu meat; from filet mignon and brisket to summer sausage and short ribs. People love to roast hot dogs while camping, and KC Cattle Companys uncured wagyu hot dogs can really elevate the experience. They contain no added nitrites and come fully cooked, making them an incredibly tasty and healthy choice for a weekend out in nature.
Ill always be grateful for that very first camping trip, but Ill readily admit that Im more of a glamping person and hypervigilant about food safety. When Im confident about my equipment and the food Ive packed, it helps me relax so I can focus on more important things like running from spiders in my tent. So gear up and hit the great outdoors one last time this camping season!
See the article here:
Its Fall Camping Season. Make It Healthy and Delicious - Forbes
