Aesthetic Lockdown Camping Trip

 

BENEFITS OF CAMPING

There are many studies listing the incredible benefits of camping on our mental health. It can allow you peaceful time with yourself, or, quality time spent with loved ones. In addition, being outdoors in nature and away from electronics also has a massive impact on our well-being. This can be detailed further in an article found here. It can be an incredibly spiritual experience, as well as an aesthetically-pleasing trip. 

PACKING LIST

For camping, the weather can be incredibly variable. Usually, I am all about the layers and always find myself freezing in the night. However, I knew that I would be camping in a heatwave so I didn't need too many layers. Some of the items I packed included: PJ shorts (and trousers in case it got very cold), PJ tops, socks, underwear, leggings, tops, a jean skirt, a jean jacket, hoodie and raincoat. In terms of shoes, I brought some trainers, walking boots and adidas trainers.

 

CAMPING ESSENTIALS

I ended up buying a tent from go outdoors and with it, the ground-sheet and pegs. We also got an electric hook-up cable and brought with us a kettle and self-heating cooking pot. Because we had electricity, we were able to bring inflatable beds and, of course, brought the pump with us. We  also made sure we had plenty of water, food and snacks for our comfort. 

 

TOILETRIES

I ended up packing a makeup bag with some very basic makeup for my days out in the surrounding cities such as Bath. Other things I packed included: toothbrush & paste, dry shampoo, a razor, suncream, deodorant & body spray, shampoo & body wash, face wipes, hand sanitizer, simple soap and hand soap. 

 

OTHER ESSENTIALS

I also made sure I had antihistamines & paracetamol, as well as loo-roll since, during the pandemic, the campsites stopped providing it. Other things I brought included: an umbrella, my wallet, a backpack, a towel, a lunchbox, a book, sponge and washing up bowl, antiseptic wipes, tea towel, binbags, a hairbrush and bobbles and a water-bottle. In terms of electrics, I made sure I had my switch, phone and camera as well as their chargers. I also brought earplugs. 

PICKING A CAMPSITE

With the ongoing pandemic, I found myself incredibly restricted in terms of campsite availability. Most places were fully booked and the ones which weren't didn't have an electric hook-up. For that reason, I only had about three locations to decide between. However, it's great to assess what type of campsite you want; it is worth considering an electric hook-up, toilet facilities, catering and the availability of hiking routes etc. My campsite was called 'cotswolds camping' in Charlebury. We picked this location to have easy access to the villages in the Cotswolds as well as under 2 hours drive to two sites I wanted to visit; Bath and Stonehenge. The campsite was stunning; it had a food truck, lovely spaces to sit and eat, large pitches, electric hook-ups, and two toilet blocks with showers. The other main locations people tend to go in the UK include: the lake district, the peak district, cornwall, wales and scottland.

 

 

aesthetic & spiritual activities

STARGAZING, SUNRISES & SUNSETS

There are definitely philosophical and psychological studies proving the benefits of observing the sky. Whilst camping, you are ideally situated to watch sunrises, sunsets and to stargaze. I was even lucky enough to camp during a meteor shower. Frequently quoted is the philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson who wrote an essay called "Nature" in 1836: "If a man would be alone, let him look at the stars...the rays that come from those heavenly worlds, will separate between him and what he touches.” This, for me, highlights how stargazing helps separate myself and my consciousness from the world around me. Coming to nature always allows me to observe the simplicity of life and to achieve peace associated with the simple life, escaping the problems caused by the busier, urban world. There is an interesting article further on this called "Using the magical therapy of stargazing to shift depression" found here. You can also simply benefit from looking at any kind of scenery; sit down and find a peaceful spot. Maybe even listen to a peaceful playlist or a podcast. I found myself listening to some more episodes of Jay Shetty's podcast. 

READING, BLANKETS & WARM BEVERAGES

Having a cozy atmosphere is incredibly soothing whilst camping. I brought a fuzzy warm blanket and also plenty of books to read. I even downloaded some Netflix including documentaries which are proven to be more stimulating and enriching than other series which simply provide a form of escape instead of making you develop as a person. To add to the aesthetic, I packed some popcorn and some coffee and hot chocolate sachets as well as a cute mug to properly enjoy the evenings when inside the tent. You could also pack some board games to spend quality time with friends or family. Bringing some cozy pyjamas is another thing that can make a massive difference!

MUSIC, CAMPFIRES & SMORES

One of the best sights whilst camping is having everyone sat around a fire, talking and playing music. Perhaps someone even brought a guitar. Unfortunately, my guitar did not fit in the car, but it would have added to the aesthetic. Bring some camping chairs or blankets to set down on the grass around a fire. Be sure to bring marshmallows too for roasting or to make into smores with a pack of biscuits! You could even have a barbecue during the day with food such as hot-dogs, which are easy to transport.

 

PINTEREST INSPIRATION