We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
Camping has always been a mix of fun, adventure, and excitement, whether it’s a month-long backpacking journey or a weekend escape; there's a world to explore and so much to anticipate. One activity I'm eager to try on my next trip is creating DIY camping signs. They've become increasingly popular, offering a unique way to personalize the camping experience.
I have to admit,I've always leaned towards convenience, opting for store-bought items from Amazon or Etsy, but there’s something special about DIY projects. They add a unique touch to any camping setup, especially for those who enjoy adorning their glamping space or RV. These signs not only decorate the site but when they RV travel away from the campsite, their rv camping signs also travel with them, adding a personal touch wherever they go. I can't say I'm that enthusiastic about it yet, but who knows? After my first sign, maybe that will be me. I am quite invested at this point, doing my research, to make sure my sign is made properly, can't have the rain wash my hard work away.
And if you're planning your next camping trip and looking for tips on what to bring, don't forget to check out our comprehensive guide, “How to Pack for Camping,” which includes a handy downloadable camping checklist.
For those of you who are also planning your meals for the trip, don't miss our article on the “Best Canned Foods for Camping and Simple Recipes,” complete with simple, delicious recipes and another downloadable checklist to streamline your meal planning.
Now let's get to the reason you're here: If you want to start making your own DIY signs? Here are some great tips I've come across:
Chalkboard or Whiteboard Creations
Using a chalkboard or whiteboard for your camp signs seems to be an ingenious way to switch it up and keep your messages fresh. These boards are readily available at craft stores and Amazon , or you can embrace the DIY spirit and make one yourself. Arm yourself with colorful chalks and a bundle of great ideas, and you're all set to captivate your fellow campers strolling by your site.
Wooden Signs
A wooden camping sign is not as hard to make as I assumed it would be. If you have access to a laser engraver you can do some awesome stuff. You can even make custom camping signs. You can either carve or paint your message onto the wooden sign and then just seal it to protect it from the elements. Wood glue would seal more than one piece of wood together. Or just take a single piece of wood, sand it to create a smooth surface, and then paint or carve your message. For people with a sense of humor, funny camping signs are great during special festivities and fun events.
Many people love mountain silhouettes or mountain tops for their camping signs. Here's the guide I'm using to get me through these mountain silhouette signs.
A DIY wood triangle banner shape camping sign is also a technique that DIY campers like to know about. You might end up being so professional you will want to sell your goods on a seller portal from your travel trailer or your office depot!
Tin Or Metal Signs
Tin or metal signs seem ideal to make because they are weather-resistant and durable. To make a tin sign, get a piece of tin, a stencil and some paint. You can write by freehand or use a stencil. When it’s complete, a good idea would be to seal the tin sign so that you protect it from the weather. Rust-Oleum Crystal Clear is a good one.
Painted Stones
This is such a simple but highly effective way to get a message across. And to be honest, this will most likely be my first DIY camp sign i try out. Using white paint or other reflective paints, will help the stones show more at night. What you do is find some smooth type stones or rocks; not too big unless you don’t intend to lug them around – and then just give them a paint job. You can also use stencils on the rocks or stones to create something more detailed. Just wait for the paint to dry, and then you can seal the stones with the Rust-Oleum Crystal Clear we mentioned above.
Wood Burning
Wood burning is not a special art that only some people can do. You can do it too. But in case you're like me and want to fine-tune your wood-burning skills, this wood-burning beginner’s kits can help you out. I've seen some signs displayed on an RV that were so attractive and beautifully made, that I initially thought they were a new window or front door.
Slat Camping Sign
A slat sign is easy to make. All you will need is wood slats, which you can get from your home improvement store. They will cut it to the size you want. You'll also need a printed image on a card, some white craft glue and string or rope for easy hanging. You can use one slat at the top and one at the bottom. Paint or stain the wood as you please. Just remember to let the paint dry before you start gluing anything. See the pic below to see how the end result will look. If the glue is insufficient to hold the string or twine, perhaps a staple gun would be better to make sure it stays. It's all explained here.
Other Tools To Use For Your DIY Camping Signs
- Permanent markers can be used on wood after you prime it. Then write and seal it later.
- Metallic paint markers or chalk markers. You can do painting with acrylics. Buy yourself a basic acrylic set with some low price brushes. I just happen to have some that I caught a good black Friday deal on for a different project.
- Then there are always recycled materials, which make wonderful and fun camping signs. Maybe you love the thought of pinecones, or flowers made from paper towel, animal bones, personal use items, or a piece of vinyl. All you do is glue them to the sign using super glue or wood glue. To use vinyl on the sign, when stenciling, apply your stencil with transfer tape, and be sure to use a smoothing tool to adhere the vinyl to the slat sign.
- Stenciling and spraying is still probably the easiest way to DIY wood camp signs. If you spray paint your sign, remember the sealant!
Want To Take It To The Next Level?
You can store your projects in the cloud, using Cricut Design Space. Cricut Design Space may be used on your Android mobile devices as an app.
Camping In Style
Creating a campsite sign can be pretty inspiring, fun, and creative. They're perfect additions for the campsite. Whether you make your own sign, or buy one, adding it to your campsite is a great way to show your personality and make your space feel more like home. After all, your campsite should reflect your unique style and personality. If my sign can add great value around the campsite; peacefulness, happiness, and good vibes, I'll be one happy camper.
![The Essentials List Are you Ready to embark on your first camping trip of the season or, better yet, your first one? It's that time of year to start planning. Remember to keep an open mind; no matter the weather conditions, you can make the best of things. Tent camping, RV camping, and car camping have become popular in recent years. If you're living the van life, plan ahead to find a frontcountry campground for your needs. Yep, there are many ways to camp, and this camping checklist tells you the best way to pack. Whether you're going on a day hike or exploring our national parks for weeks on end, we've got your next camping trip covered. A little planning goes a long way. Proper shelter and sleeping gear are necessary for camping; they will directly impact your overall comfort and well-being. Knowing how to pack for camping involves including a tent, ground tarp or footprint, sleeping bag, sleeping pad or air mattress. These items provide protection from the elements and contribute to a warm and cozy night's sleep. Shelter and Sleeping Gear: ☐ Tent: Your home away from home, giving shelter and comfort. ☐ Ground tarp or footprint: A protective layer that keeps you and your gear dry. ☐ Sleeping bag: Add your most comfortable sleeping pad for extra heat, the key to a warm night's sleep. Can you say ☐ Sleeping pad or air mattresses: A little extra cushioning never hurts. ☐ Pillow: Who wants to wake up with a stiff neck the following day? Now, you're all set for a good night's sleep in the great outdoors. Campsite Essentials: Transform your camping spot into a cozy retreat with these must-haves.The term camping essentials means vital items for a seamless and outdoor experience. These items encompass everything from campsite necessities to safety gear, ensuring campers are well-equipped to handle various situations. Knowing and including camping essentials in your packing list will guarantee convenience, comfort, and preparedness so you can fully immerse yourself in camping alone or with your family. ☐ Camping Spot: You need to know your number. If you have an RV, make sure you get a drive-in campsite when you call. ☐ Camp Director number: You need to know who to contact when you arrive ☐ Camping permit: You'll need this if your tent is camping inside a park. REMEMBER to take it out if you packed it in. ☐ Camping chairs or portable seating: You'll want to relax around the campfire. ☐ Folding table or Picnic table: Needed for meal prep, games, and that m OKorning cup of coffee. ☐ Lantern or headlamp: Remember the extra batteries. ☐ Multi-tool or knife: A tool for tasks around the campsite. ☐ Pocket Knife: Handiest tool on you; use it from ticks to sticks. ☐ Trash bags: Leave no trace – keep our campsite clean and green. ☐ Camping rope or paracord: Your makeshift clothesline for wet towels or clothing. ☐ Duct tape: The quicker fixer-upper. ☐ Camping shovel: For when your site does not have a fire pit. Your campsite is equipped for convenience and comfort. Let the camping fun begin! Cooking And Camp Kitchen Essentials: While camping, you need a defined area to cook up a storm and organize your kitchen supplies. You don't want to dig through boxes and bags to find what you need, right? That's where a camp kitchen comes in handy! Having a separate area to prepare meals, store drinks, and snacks, and keep your cooking supplies makes all the difference. To improve your camp kitchen experience, you'll want to have some must-have tools on hand, like portable stoves, canister stoves, grills, and cooking utensils. To make your camping trip more efficient with less stress, set up a camp kitchen tote or tub for easy transport, allowing for easy setup and take down! It's all about convenience, self-reliance, and having a great time in the great outdoors. Turn your campsite into your home kitchen with these essentials, making your food preparation a breeze. ☐ Portable camp stove or camping grill: You've got an outdoor kitchen. ☐ Fuel for stove: Make sure your tank is full, or you buy wood to use. ☐ Pop Up Canopy: My top pic is a one man set up so you can get it done. ☐ Cooking utensils (pots, pans, spatula, etc.): Cooking campfire meals. ☐ Hot pads, dish towels: Safety first, caution hot flames. ☐ Paper Towel: Overlooked necessity for your camp kitchen. ☐ Eating utensils (plate, bowl, cup, fork, knife, spoon): Keep your manners ☐ Cooler with ice packs: Store perishables and keep beverages cold. ☐ Food and snacks: You'll keep everyone happy with various tasty treats. ☐ Water bottles or hydration system: We all have our favorite, so bring it to stay hydrated but this collapsible water bottle takes up minimal space and is so convenient i just have to share ☐ Coffee maker or kettle: Nothing beats the first cup of morning camping coffee. ☐ Plastic Bags: For all those yummy leftovers ☐ Water Jug: Bring a water jug for easy clean up of your outdoor kitchen. [Pro Tips: Horse It's a good idea to know what grocery stores are around you in case you forget to pack items you need for meals] Clothing: Choosing the right clothes is important when camping as they impact your comfort and well-being. In hot weather, lightweight, breathable fabrics help keep you cool, preventing overheating, discomfort, and a moody bunch of people. Layering with insulated materials is essential in cold weather to trap body heat and keep the chill away. Dress for adventure and always pack warm clothes and extra items to be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way: ☐ Weather-appropriate Clothing (Layering is your life): Make sure you have an outer layer. ☐ Waterproof jacket: For unexpected rain showers. ☐ Hat and gloves: Protect against both the sun's rays and cold. ☐ Sun Protection Clothing like long sleeve shirts and arm pull-ons: No burns. ☐ Extra socks and underwear: Start the day feeling fresh. ☐ Hiking boots or sturdy shoes: Keep feet comfy and ankles supported on the trails. ☐ Sandals or camp shoes: Give your feet a breather at the camp. ☐ Shower Shoes: Must have, no matter how clean, it could be cleaner. ☐ Swimwear: For fund dips in the pools, lakes, creeks, or oceans. Are you taking a hike with your best friends? Keep safety first and bring essential items for everyone. For large groups, assign a navigator so no one gets on the wrong trail. Safety and Navigation: When you're camping with your family, having safety stuff like first aid kits and emergency gear is essential. It's having a backup plan for unexpected things that can and do happen. You want to make sure everyone stays safe and sound. Safety first! Your first aid kit, maps, compass, whistle, and fire starter will prepare you for anything, even bear country. Plus, having maps and compasses helps you stay on track while hiking and exploring, making the whole family outing worry-free. Look at it this way: you'll be like the superhero of camping– always ready to handle anything and keep everyone happy. All jokes aside, safety while camping is important, and you must take every precaution. ☐ First aid kit: For minor injuries or providing first response until professional help arrives. ☐ Map and compass: Navigation tools to he yeahlp orient yourself in the wilderness and plan your route. ☐ Multi-tool or knife: Versatile tool for various tasks, from cutting rope to preparing food. ☐ Emergency whistle: Blow if you see a bear ☐ Fire starters (matches, lighter, or fire starter kit): Needed to stay warm, cook, and signal for help. ☐ Headlamp or flashlight: Don't forget the extra batteries ☐ Sunscreen and Bug Spray: Protection against sunburn and insect bites, enhancing overall comfort during outdoor activities. If you prefer to go the natural route this deet free bug spray works wonders. ☐ Water Source: Identify reliable water sources for your camping trip. These items will ensure you have the necessary camping gear for emergencies. Personal Items And Basic Necessities In case of emergencies or unexpected situations, it's crucial to have your prescribed medication in its original bottle. This provides important information for doctors or fellow campers assisting you. I keep my meds in a small tote with a secure lid to ensure they stay safe and easily accessible during camping trips. ☐ ID: Important, especially in emergencies or when required by authorities. ☐ Cash or cards: To pay for camping spot food supplies and other necessary supplies that could arise. ☐ Medication: Make sure you bring your meds in your prescribed bottles if you can, in case of an emergency. It would be unsafe for someone to guess what you take and how much. ☐ Backpack: Convenient for carrying and organizing your personal belongings, making it easier to move around. ☐ Waterproof Bag/Day Pack: Keep your extra clothes dry on a day hike ☐ Hygiene essentials: Maintain personal cleanliness and health, contributing to overall well-being during the trip. ☐ Towel: Useful for drying off after activities, cleaning, or as an emergency item. ☐ Biodegradable soap: Eco-friendly option for cleaning yourself and your utensils, minimizing environmental impact. ☐ Lip Balm: No matter the weather condition, you can get chapped lips ☐ Water bottle/ Water Jug: Keep hydrated throughout your adventures. I just love this collapsible water bottle. [PRO TIP: I organize my camping supplies with packing cubes, and loading the heaviest last so they're the first to get out. I have many items with different uses, and I want my campsite equipped for convenience and comfort.] Recreational Gear: First things first, are you ready for fun? Fishing poles, bikes, and E-bikes, oh my, with a stash of outdoor games, you're guaranteed a great time. Don't forget to Bring along some recreational gear when camping! Whether flying solo or with the whole family, having things like frisbees, or your favorite guitar adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the great outdoors. Camping is about creating memories that last a lifetime. ☐ Fishing poles and tackle: Go fishing and provide a fresh meal on your camping trip. ☐ Fishing license (if required): Check compliance with local regulations. ☐ Bikes or E-bikes: Explore the camping area. ☐ Bike helmets: Prioritize safety while biking. ☐ Bike repair kit: Be prepared for bike issues ☐ Outdoor games for kids (e.g., frisbee, kite, ball): Keep your children entertained and off their phones. Up to a real challenge? Time how long can you keep them off their phones! ☐ Portable hammock: Unwind in a comfortable outdoor space. ☐ Binoculars: Enjoy seeing the wildlife around you. Field guide for local flora and fauna: Parks may have interactive guides for your children to check off what they see while at the park. Make sure you take some, if not all, of these recreational gear items; they'll provide an all-around fun family camping experience. Entertainment and Comfort: Bringing a book or e-reader, along with a cell phone and charger, adds a touch of comfort to your camping. Downtime with a good book or electronic entertainment can be a relaxing escape. While electronics like cell phones can be handy for checking weather conditions or emergencies, I suggest using them sparingly to maintain the natural camping vibe. On the other hand, options like a deck of cards or board games provide timeless fun, especially when camping with kids. You will learn to create a relaxing atmosphere with practice without relying too much on technology. ☐ Book or e-reader: Enjoy some downtime. ☐ Cell Phone and Cell Phone Charger: You can check weather conditions on your phone and use the charger to stay powered up. ☐ Any electronic device you must have: That will enhance your camping experience. ☐ Deck of cards or board games: Go old school with kids. These entertainment items will add versatility when the weather's not on your side. Optional Extras: Having optional extras like a portable power bank or solar charger is a smart move for camping, especially in emergencies or gear malfunctions. A power bank or solar charger ensures your phone stays charged and provides a reliable power source for communication, navigation, and other small electronic devices like flashlights or cameras. The portable air pump in the repair kit not only inflates your air mattress for a comfy night's sleep but will also fix a flat tire on your vehicle or camper, offering a quick solution to keep your wheels moving. Additionally, a generator in the kit goes beyond camping comfort – it can power electric heating or cooling devices, turning your outdoor shelter into a safe space no matter the weather. These extras act as your camping insurance, providing you peace of mind and ensuring you're well-prepared for any unexpected situations life might throw your way. ☐ Portable power bank or solar charger: Keep your electronic devices charged and provides a reliable power source. ☐ Repair kit for gear (portable air pump, generator): Handy for addressing unexpected equipment issues, from quickly inflating flats to having electric heat and air when needed. These optional extras are worth their weight in gold. In conclusion, your ultimate outdoor camping adventure is waiting, and with this comprehensive guide on how to pack for camping, you’ll be well-equipped. From shelter and sleeping gear to cooking essentials, safety and navigation tools, personal items, recreational gear, and entertainment options, this checklist has you covered. Consider investing in the listed and linked product as you gear up for your camping season. The idea is camping for a lifetime, not just one time; being prepared will make that happen. Sharing is caring So, share your best-kept camping secrets, like how you pack or store your camping gear in the comments below.](https://ilikeoutdoor.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/How-to-pack-for-camping.png)
