Remember that scene in The Parent Trap where the dad takes his new fiancée camping only to realize she can’t hack it? Camping, fishing, or caravanning is one of the best ways to get to know a potential significant other. Being outside strips people of the creature comforts of home and shows you how a person can handle themselves. Will the freak out? Or can they go with the flow? Will they get tense? Or can they laugh off the little things? Take your partner camping and get to see your companion in a whole new light.
Keep romance on the forefront
Sure you are roughing it, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be romantic. Pack a nice bottle of wine, (make sure to bring your Swiss army knife corkscrew), or a little French press with gourmet coffee. An iPod with a preset playlist can set the mood at night. Indulge your inner kid, by roasting marshmallows by the fire. A little wine, good music and marshmallows can go a long way.
Keep portable hygiene in mind
When you’ve been outside hiking, examining rock formations, and spying on animals, it’s likely that the two of you will get a little bit dirty. However, anything scented like creams or perfumes are a no-go because of the animal factor. So even if you’re very conscious of your appearance, leave the fancy toiletries at home. Instead, pack anti-bacterial hand sanitizer. If one of you has to make a “pit-stop” in the woods, don’t make a big deal out of it. Pack baby wipes so you’re always able to keep fresh. You may find that your partner is looking even better when they’re less self-conscious.
Keep roughing it to a minimum
If you are a seasoned camper and your date isn’t, don’t push them to the edge right away by roughing it too much. Guys and gals raised in the city or suburban areas are not likely to be used to sleeping on the ground in a tent while coyotes howl in the background. If their idea of roughing it is not getting a manicure or settling for watered-down beer, you’ll need to take it slow. You can easily rent a cabin instead and enjoy movies, music, and running water. Not everything has to be up to Davy Crockett’s expectations.
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