Have to write a paper about the disadvantages and the benefits of camping? Essay examples are a good place to start your research. Read one of them below.
Introduction
Camping is an outdoor activity that involves spending time in nature, exploring its different aspects, and doing a wide variety of activities. Individuals spend time in various natural settings and enjoy themselves by taking part in physical activities. The history of camping can be traced back to the early years of the 20th century (Daniel, 2015). It began with travelers and explorers. Camping has numerous variations that include adventure camping, backpacking, canoe camping, work camping, social camping, bicycle camping, survivalist camping, and dry camping (Daniel, 2015). These variations are distinguished by the type of activities involved. The activities are designed to suit the theme or purpose of camping. On the other hand, individuals can choose among many options available for shelter facilities such as tents, caravans, primitive structures, and open air. In contemporary society, camping takes place in natural settings such as public parks, forests, national parks, and campgrounds.
Why people love camping
Many people love camping because of the excitement, entertainment, and opportunities for growth it presents. Others love it because of the exhilaration derived from sleeping outdoors, watching the sky at night, making campfires, and enjoying the cool breeze that is associated with natural settings. Camping involves several activities that include hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing, riding bicycles, fishing, and climbing. Camping appeals to many people because of the variety it provides with regard to the activities that they can do. In many cultures, camping is a cultural concept that brings people together and strengthens their relationships by taking part in certain activities that encourage bonding.
The freedom that people enjoy during camps is another reason for its popularity (Daniel, 2015). For example, many people unplug technology in order to enjoy quality time with their family members and friends. On the other hand, there are very few restrictions, and people are free to do what they want to have fun. In today’s society, technology has separated people from nature and led to the loss of human interaction on a personal level. Therefore, camping gives people an opportunity to get away from the technological distractions of the modern world and spend time in quiet environments that are rejuvenating.
Benefits of camping
Socialization is one of the most important benefits of camping (The Many Benefits of a Camping Trip, 2012). As mentioned earlier, technological advancements have changed human communication significantly because most of it is done virtually. Camping gives people an opportunity to socialize and interact one-on-one without technological distractions (Holmes, 2015). This socialization strengthens friendships and family ties. For example, children get adequate time to spend with their parents, have fun, and talk about different issues. Many working parents get little time to spend with their children because of the high demands of life in modern society. They have many responsibilities and little time. Camping is an effective way for families to spend time together and reconnect.
Camping has several health benefits that include physical exercise, absorption of Vitamin D from sunlight, relaxation, reduced blood pressure, and reduction of mental stress (Holmes, 2015). Camping activities take place in open places that receive ample sunlight. Spending time outdoors allows people to absorb Vitamin D from sunlight to supplement the one that is obtained from food. Vitamin D is an important component of healthy living that reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, lowers levels of blood pressure, and aids in eradicating depression.
Activities such as swimming, cycling, and climbing engage the muscles and relax the body (Tawrell, 2007). This enhances the quality of sleep, strengthens the immune system, and lowers mental stress. In addition, the fresh air and little noise create a healthy environment. Engaging in physical activity is recommended by medical practitioners because it enhances people’s health outcomes. For example, it improves blood and body fluids circulation, strengthens muscles, and aids in control (The Many Benefits of a Camping Trip, 2012). The peace, quiet, and serenity found in natural settings lowers stress and rejuvenate the body.
Camping is a financial advantage because it provides people with an opportunity to take vacations without spending a lot of money. Camping is a cheap and affordable alternative to traditional holidays because the cost of hotels is higher than the cost of campsites. On the other hand, individuals prepare their own meals and, as a result, save money. Activities such as swimming, reading, hiking, and cycling save people a lot of money because they do not involve the financial costs associated with vacations (The Many Benefits of a Camping Trip, 2012). People who go to national parks and public parks set up their tents anywhere and do not incur any charges. In commercial camping grounds, campers only pay a small fee that is less than the cost of staying in a hotel.
Disadvantages of camping
Camping has several benefits that have made it its favorite pastime activity among many people. However, it has some disadvantages too. One of the disadvantages is the issue of changes in weather patterns. In many natural settings, it gets very cold at night, and that can present health hazards that could predispose people to colds and flu. Surviving cold nights and hot days during winter and summer can be very challenging (Tawrell, 2007). On the other hand, summers are very hot, and prolonged periods of exposure to direct sunlight can have adverse health effects.
Mosquitoes and other insects can cause diseases if campers fail to use equipment to keep the insects away. Mosquito repellents and sprays can be used to keep insects away. Lack of amenities such as good food and electricity can be difficult for some people. Another disadvantage is the lack of security in certain areas. Camping takes place outdoors, where there are many threats to people’s security (Daniel, 2015). For instance, camping in national parks and forests is dangerous because of the risk f attacks by wild animals. Locations such as commercial camping sites provide adequate security for campers. However, it is not enough because security breaches can originate from campers with malicious intentions.
One of the activities that take place during camping is socialization. There is little time available for people to spend alone. This can be very challenging for people who like to spend time alone reading, writing, listening to music, or meditating. The social nature of camping activities eliminates the possibility of getting time to spend alone and do personal things (Daniel, 2015). Some people need adequate time to be alone in order to rewind and rejuvenate. Otherwise, too much socialization drains their energy, makes them irritable, and lowers their productivity and performance. Camping is not a very effective way of vacationing for people who like to spend time alone.
Preparations for camping are tedious and long because of the need to take time and pack everything that is needed. Forgetting certain things can have an adverse effect on the quality of camping experiences. People usually prepare their own food during camps and share certain facilities. There can be a problem with the food quality because campers usually prepare meals that do not take much time. Therefore, food variety is limited to a few types. This is contrary to the wide variety that is available in hotels and restaurants. Sharing facilities such as bathrooms can be difficult for people who are self-conscious about their physical appearance (Daniel, 2015). Camping is fun and a cost-effective way of taking a vacation. However, it is inappropriate for people who like to spend time alone or are conscious about their physical appearances.
Conclusion
Camping is a favorite pastime activity among many people because it is cost-effective and provides an opportunity to enjoy nature and reconnect with family and friends. It incorporates a wide range of activities, such as swimming, hiking, running, fishing, canoeing, and cycling. Its advantages include socializing, participation in physical activity, relaxation, reduction of mental stress, and absorption of Vitamin D. On the other hand, it is cost-effective and is an affordable alternative to traditional vacationing. Its disadvantages include a lack of security in certain areas, too much socializing, and a lack of privacy. The social nature of camping activities denies people the opportunity to spend time alone. This can be difficult, especially for introverts. Sharing facilities such as bathrooms are difficult for people who are conscious about their physical appearance due to lack of privacy. Camping is a good pastime activity that provides people with a cost-effective means of having fun and reconnecting with family and friends.
References
Daniel, N. (2015). Let’s Go Camping: An Introduction to Camping. New York, NY: BookRix.
Holmes, L. (2015). The Very Real Benefits of Going Camping. Web.
Tawrell, P. (2007). Wilderness Camping & Hiking. New York, NY: Paul Tawrell.
The Many Benefits of a Camping Trip. (2012). Web.