Camping is an excellent weekend getaway activity to engage in with friends. You get to go to new places and spend lots of quality time with them. This creates a chance to bond with other people and this way you can learn a lot from each other and cement the friendship.
Have you ever thought of dry camping? Dry camping, what is it in the first place? This may be new to most of us while some may have just heard of it but barely know anything about dry camping. This is why this informative article has been written to exclusively educate you about dry camping. All the information you might need to know about dry camping will be availed in this article.
All I am asking from you is that you keep reading and give me a chance to educate on what dry camping is and the simple and basic things you should know about dry camping. Without wasting any more of our precious time, let us now get into business.
What is Dry Camping?
Let us start by defining the term dry camping. Learning the definition of dry camping will help you a great deal in understanding the important details I will discuss. This is why it is very crucial that we start by understanding the meaning of what we are going to dwell on.
Dry camping is basically the period when you head off in your motorhome, or better, an RV, and you survive without the basic social amenities such as water and electricity. This period is difficult to deal with since you will no longer be in the comfort zone where you have all the unlimited resources at your disposal.
You only have to be adequately prepared mentally and physically to undertake your dry camping with minimum or no supervision.
4 Requirements of Undertaking Dry Camping
Dry camping is challenging but very rewarding in the long run. The key to a successful dry camping exercise is in its preparation. There are items that you must have to enhance a smooth dry camping with little or no challenges. Electricity and water are major components you need to pay close attention to.
1. Electricity
Going on dry camping will have you far from the normal and unlimited power supply that you are used to. This means that you need a source of energy and you also need to know how to use the limited resource in the best way.
Batteries are what you will have to use, other than the 120volt electricity that you are used to at home. Get batteries that are large enough to serve you with power for the necessary functions. At this point, there is no room for luxuries such as air conditioning.
Here are some crucial tips which will help you conserve your battery energy:
- Use solar power which will give you tons of power at no cost. Only the installation process will cost you some bucks, but in the long run, it will be worth the investment.
- Do not leave any appliances on if they are not in use.
- Make sure that you switch off the lights when they are not in use.
- Opt to utilize battery operated appliances rather than plugging in devices to your battery charge, for instance, a torch.
- Turn on one light at a go, and only when it is in use.
2.Water
Water is life, and that is why no living being can live without it. As a dry camper, you should be conservative with your fresh water so that it can serve you longer. Once you get to a water source, determine the water you are likely to use and get enough of it. Here are some water conservation measures that I will share with you.
- tint For showering purposes, use a plastic dishpan. It aids a great deal in water conservation since it captures the water which could have gone to waste. The water can then be reused, for instance for flushing the toilet or unclogging toilet holding tank.
- tint Dish water, as well as rinse water, can be reused to water plants and thirsty bushes. You only have to do so if you have used biodegradable soaps. There should also be no food bits in the water.
- tint Protect yourself from losing too much water from your body through intensive sweating. You can do this by taking hikes in the morning when it is cool. When the sun gets hot, walk under an umbrella and take rests in the shades. Walk at a slow pace to reduce the fatigue which is likely to make you sweat more.
- tint Let your water cool by leaving it outside at night. Cool water gets absorbed easily in your body and allows it to stay cooler for a longer period of time compared to warm water.
3. Waste disposal
For proper waste water disposal, a black water tank comes in handy. It will serve you for a longer period of time compared to the gray water tank. After it fills, dispose the waste water in the nearest dump station and not on the anywhere on the ground.
4. Meals
If during your dry camping you decide to cook, make sure that you make proper plans on how you will do so. You can cook at a place where you find a water source during your camping. Avoid meals that will leave your dishes quite messy. To clean the pots, you can wipe them using tortillas or bread.
Advantages of Dry Camping
- Requires no much preparation.
Once you decide to go dry camping, you only need your motorhome. Most vehicles are self-sufficient such that you would not miss out on much even when you are away from the comfort of your home. You can make any stretch of land an impromptu camping site.
The facilities that you need on board are such as power supply, supply of fresh water, water storage facilities and waste disposal facilities. These are the necessities which will guarantee you success in your dry camping.
- Dry camping will give you adequate time for yourself
Being around people always feels good since the people in our lives make our days quite thrilling. Despite all the fun and thrill of being around people every other time, there are moments when you feel that you need some time alone.
You cannot rely on going to camping sites because you will certainly find very many people there. At this point, you will have to seek your own trail which will lead to a perfect place where you will be all alone and far away from the hassles and puzzles of life. Only nature will be with you.
This will help give you peace and the courage to embrace what life has for you. After this dry camping, you will be more energetic and cheerful than ever. Trust me on this one.
- Exploring new environments
Dry camping involves identifying new places. You do not have to go camping at a popular place where you are sure that you will find many campers. With the flexibility of having all the basic necessities on board, you can travel as far as you want till you reach the destination that suits your interests best.
With your RV, you can go anywhere you please, so long as it is safe. You will get to engage in a variety of activities such as rock climbing, hiking, swimming, boat riding and motor sports among others. This is because you can make as many stopovers as you want at any place that catches your attention.
- In case there is an accommodation crisis
At times, we get so busy such that we forget some things that seem almost too insignificant or easy to sort out. Probably, as you were planning for your camping expedition, someone forgot to make reservations for your accommodation.
If you have an RV, you will simply have all your needs catered for as it has all the amenities you need to be comfortable. There are also times when you could be having a patient admitted to the hospital, and you barely want to leave.
At this time, an RV would come in handy since you can simply park it at the hospital if the management allows that or somewhere just close to the hospital.
- Helps a great deal in toughening up the camper
Dry camping involves surviving on very limited resources. The biggest challenge is to plan for the dry camping spree and use the limited resources in the best way such that you don’t run short of the necessities. You will also be camping in new places where no one has ever camped before. The solitude is also another challenge, especially if your major intention of going for a dry camping spree is to get some time alone and away from the daily routine of life. If you manage to successfully complete your dry camping spree for the time you intended to, you will have learned how to cope with various challenges and how to live and survive on limited resources.
Disadvantages of Dry Camping
Everything, however appealing it may seem always has its drawbacks. Here are some disadvantages associated with dry camping:
- Uncertainty about safety
Dry camping involves camping in areas you don’t know. This way, you can barely determine whether a certain location you choose is safe or not. This may be one factor that discourages people from dry camping.
- Ability to have all the basic requirements
There are several necessary requirements you need to ensure that your dry camping spree is a success. They are source of electrical power, fresh water supply and storage, and waste disposal facilities. If your RV is tiny, all these will not fit in, and so you will be disadvantaged.
FAQ’s
What is considered dry camping?
Dry camping means camping without hookups — no water, no electricity, and no sewer connections. You rely entirely on what you bring with you, like water tanks, batteries, and portable toilets. It’s a more self-sufficient way to camp and often done in remote places like national forests or off-grid campsites.
Can you shower while dry camping?
Yes, you can — but you’ll need to conserve water. Most people use an RV’s onboard shower with a limited water supply, a portable camp shower, or even a solar shower bag. A quick rinse or “navy shower” (turning the water off while soaping up) helps you save water.
What do I need for dry camping?
The basics include water storage (for drinking, cooking, and cleaning), a power source (like a charged battery or solar panels), food, a way to handle waste, and lighting. A first-aid kit, proper bedding, cooking gear, and a portable toilet or shovel are also essential.
What is the difference between dry camping and boondocking?
They’re very similar — both mean camping without hookups. The difference is usually where you do it. “Dry camping” can happen at a developed campground with no hookups, while “boondocking” usually refers to camping on public land or off-grid locations far from designated campgrounds.
Is dry camping the same as tent camping?
Not exactly. Dry camping usually refers to RV or van camping without hookups, while tent camping just means sleeping in a tent. However, tent camping is technically a form of dry camping since you’re self-sufficient and not using campground services.
What is lazy camping?
Lazy camping is a relaxed, low-effort style of camping. It usually means camping close to your vehicle, bringing minimal gear, and focusing on comfort rather than adventure — think air mattresses, simple meals, and plenty of lounging time instead of hiking or backpacking.
How do people go to the bathroom while camping?
There are several options. Many campers use campground restrooms if available. Off-grid, people use portable toilets, composting toilets, or a “cat hole” — a small hole dug at least 6–8 inches deep and 200 feet away from water sources. Always follow Leave No Trace principles.
How do you dry camp?
Plan ahead and pack carefully. Bring enough water, food, and power for the duration of your trip. Conserve resources by using LED lights, minimizing water use, and cooking simple meals. Make sure you have a plan for trash and waste disposal, and always camp where it’s legal and safe.
Can you go barefoot in public showers?
You can, but it’s not a good idea. Public showers often have bacteria or fungi that cause infections like athlete’s foot. Wearing flip-flops or shower sandals is a much safer option.
Should I put a tarp under my tent?
Yes, a tarp or groundsheet protects the bottom of your tent from moisture, sharp objects, and wear. It also provides an extra layer of insulation. Make sure it doesn’t stick out beyond the tent floor — otherwise, it can collect rainwater and direct it under your tent.
What not to forget when going camping?
Some essentials people often forget include a first-aid kit, extra batteries, fire starters, a headlamp or flashlight, trash bags, toilet paper, insect repellent, and a backup water source. Double-check your list before you leave — forgetting even one of these can make a trip uncomfortable.
How to dry your clothes while camping?
Hang them on a clothesline in the sun or near a warm campfire (but not too close to avoid sparks). Wring out as much water as possible first, and if it’s damp or rainy, you can place clothes in a mesh bag and hang them inside your tent overnight with good ventilation.
What is bathroom camping?
“Bathroom camping” isn’t an official term, but some people use it to describe camping in locations that have restroom facilities, making the trip more comfortable — especially for beginners or families.
What is an alternative to showering when camping?
Wet wipes, biodegradable body wipes, or a sponge bath with a small bowl of water are common alternatives. They help you stay clean and fresh without using large amounts of water.
How to stay dry when camping in the rain?
Choose a well-drained campsite, use a high-quality waterproof tent, and always pitch it on higher ground. A tarp over your tent or cooking area creates a dry space, and wearing quick-dry clothing helps keep you comfortable. Keep gear stored in waterproof bags or dry sacks.
What is moochdocking?
Moochdocking is when you camp for free on a friend or family member’s property — usually in an RV or camper — and use some of their resources, like water or electricity. It’s a casual, budget-friendly form of camping often done in driveways or private land.
How to shower when dry camping?
Use a solar shower bag, a small portable shower, or a bucket with a hand pump. If your RV has a water tank, take quick showers to save water — wet yourself, turn off the water while soaping, then rinse quickly. Some campers even use rinse-free body wash for ultra-minimal water use.
What is the bare minimum for camping?
At the most basic level, you need shelter (like a tent), sleeping gear (bag or pad), food, water, and a way to stay warm and dry. Add a first-aid kit, light source, and something to cook with, and you’re set for a simple camping trip.
Can you dry camp in a tent?
Absolutely. Tent camping is one of the simplest forms of dry camping. You just need to bring everything with you — water, food, and waste solutions — since you won’t have access to campground facilities.
How long does it take for camp dry to dry?
If you’re referring to waterproofing spray like Camp Dry, it usually dries within 24 hours. Make sure to apply it in a well-ventilated area and let it cure fully before packing or exposing it to rain.
How to dry a tent overnight?
Shake off as much water as possible, then set up the tent in a ventilated area. Keep the doors and vents open to let air circulate. If it’s dry and cool, hang the rainfly separately. In damp conditions, use a towel to remove excess moisture and let it air-dry inside a sheltered space.
Wrapping up
We believe you can now comfortably give an answer to the question, “what is dry camping” after acquiring the resourceful information provided above. Now that you know what dry camping is, its advantages, disadvantages and shortcomings, you can now decide whether to go on a dry camping spree or not.
On my side, I consider giving it a trial a great deal since the best part of it is overcoming its shortcomings. On security, you should be very cautious though and ensure that you go dry camping in a place that is totally secure. Are you planning to go dry camping soon? Do you think you will ever give it a try once in your lifetime? Do you believe there is some relevant information about dry camping that we left out?
Leave a comment regarding this article and also let us know your perspective on dry camping, and the number of times per year you are planning to take part in dry camping. Make an inquiry if you need clarification.