There is something magical about off-grid camping. No hookups, no crowds, just you and the great outdoors. But let’s be honest. That magic can fade quickly if you are not prepared.
I just got back from a long March weekend of off-grid camping in Northeast Iowa. We were lucky to have pleasant temps during the day, but the temps dropped below freezing every night.
The key to a successful off-grid adventure is not packing more. It is packing smart.
Start with the essentials. Water, power, food, and shelter come first. Water is your top priority, and a good rule of thumb is at least one gallon per person per day. Bring extra for cooking and washing. If you’re really going out into the middle of nowhere, a filtration system is a must if you’re planning to use local water sources. When it comes to power, do not rely on just one source. A portable power station paired with solar panels can keep your lights, phones, and small appliances running smoothly.
Food should be simple and low maintenance.
Think pre-cooked meals, one-pan recipes, and easy cleanup. And do not forget your coffee setup, because mornings at camp should feel just as good as they do at home! I made individually wrapped breakfast burritos that we could just toss on the fire grate for a few minutes every morning – easy peasy!
Comfort matters more than you think.
A warm blanket, a solid chair, and a cozy place to sleep can make all the difference after a long day of exploring. Add in a few personal touches like your favorite book or a campfire treat, and suddenly you are not just camping, you are living well outdoors. If you’re going in those colder months, think about how you’ll stay warm at night.
My little Casita trailer does not have a furnace. Electric warming devices use a lot of juice, so you really can’t depend on your power bank to power a space heater or even a heated blanket. We use a diesel heater which works spectacularly.
Finally, always plan for the unexpected.
A well-stocked first aid kit, extra fuel, and backup lighting are not extras. They are essentials. For a complete printable and editable checklist to help you pack with confidence, grab it here: Off-Grid Packing List.
Off-grid camping is not about roughing it. It is about freedom, confidence, and knowing you have everything you need to enjoy the adventure. Pack well, and you will camp better.
Written by Iowa Guide Theresa Leppert.
Connect with us!
Girl Camper Magazine: Subscribe to Girl Camper Magazine here! Girl Camper Magazine
Events: Check out upcoming Girl Camper Events – you can attend events in any chapter!
Main GC Facebook Group – Join over 420,000 like-minded women in our private Facebook group! Girl Camper FB Group
Facebook Page – This is our public Facebook page, where we will share Girl Camper news. Girl Camper
