3. Immerse Yourself in Nature

Once you arrive at your chosen campsite, take some time to really soak in the surroundings. The great outdoors offers endless opportunities to explore nearby trails that match your fitness level and interests, whether you’re hiking scenic routes or biking through varied terrain.

4. Plan Camping Activities

Think about packing a camera or a journal (or even your phone, since that can do both those things) for your camping trip. If you’re an artist, a sketchpad or paint set is a great idea, too. Once night falls, gather around the campfire to sing songs, share stories, or just chat with your loved ones. Don’t forget a little stargazing, too: A sky full of stars free from light pollution is something to behold!

5. Pack Enough Food

You’re going to get hungry, so make sure you pack some filling (and tasty) meals! For camping trip food ideas, foil pack dinners, pre-made chili, grilled sandwiches, and kabobs are hearty and cook well over a flame. Cooler-friendly staples like eggs, tortillas, marinated meats, and pre-cooked rice make for flexible meals, especially when paired with canned goods or shelf-stable items like instant mashed potatoes. Don’t forget pantry basics like oil, salt, and seasoning to elevate flavor, and try to prep ingredients like chopped veggies or marinated proteins ahead of time for less hassle at camp.

6. Pack Delicious Snacks

When it comes to snacks, keep nourishing stuff on hand—think trail mix, fresh fruits, or granola bars—to fuel your trip. Get creative with your camping snacks by using TWIX Chocolate Bars as a special ingredient.  Crush some TWIX Minis Chocolate Bars into your trail mix to sweeten them up. You can even make yourself and your companions some savory TWIX-infused granola bars if you’re looking for a twist on an old favorite. Or you can keep a pack of TWIX Chocolate bars on hand for a quick, sweet pick-me-up.

7. Plan Desserts

Of course, you can’t forget about dessert—or the iconic camping trip treat, s’mores. Instead of a standard chocolate bar, toast a TWIX Chocolate Bar over the fire until its caramel softens and then sandwich it with toasted marshmallows between graham crackers. It might sound out-of-the-box, but a TWIX s’more is a delicious milk chocolate medley of crispness, gooey caramel, and satisfying crunch. For something a little more adventurous, try homemade TWIX apple pie bars or TWIX dulce de leche brownies. They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat around the campfire!

8. Understand Campfire and Wildlife Safety

Campfire safety is paramount on any trip. Always verify local regulations regarding open flames and use designated fire pits when available. Choose a safe spot away from overhanging branches and have water or sand nearby in case you need to extinguish the fire quickly. 

9. Know Your Wildlife Safety, Too

Protecting your food from local wildlife while camping is vital. Keep your food securely stored in airtight containers or bear-proof lockers and consider hanging food from a tree branch at a safe distance from your tent if you’re in bear country.

10. Be Respectful and Leave No Trace

Always adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace while camping, ensuring that you clean up thoroughly and follow any local guidelines regarding fire safety and trash disposal. Choose reusable over disposable items, use eco-friendly toiletries, and avoid introducing any non-native seeds or plants into the environment. These mindful practices ensure that the natural beauty you experience today remains intact for future explorers. Stay mindful!