Our guide to ensure you don’t leave a “footprint” when camping
You know what they say: “Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints.” That’s the rule many campers abide by, aiming to leave the wilderness just as they found it. Given the high number of people who like to go camping for their short holidays, it’s becoming increasingly important to follow this principle to ensure the preservation of the environment for future generations. Not sure how to be environmentally ghost-like when you camp? Let’s take a look at some easy tips to remember.
Plan and Prepare
Before you leave home, do you best to familiarise yourself with the area you’re visiting. Look up the rules for hiking and camping, and make sure you take note of any unusual requests.
Don’t leave waste behind
We’re not just talking about rubbish. We mean human waste. If you’re roughing it, and it’s at all possible, take it with you. If you’re going to bury it, it needs to be around 100 metres away from any body of water, and around 20 centimetres below the ground.
Leave nature behind
Don’t take anything natural with you as a memento. That’s what photographs are for.
Respect the wildlife
Not only is this a safety tip for you, it’s for our natives as well: don’t approach the animals. Don’t follow them, and never feed them. You don’t want them to rely on humans for their meals.
Be fire safe
Be aware of any fire restrictions in place before you go camping. You don’t want to plan on having an open fire for your meals, only to discover that you can’t have an open fire. Only start a fire in established fire rings. When you leave, ensure the fire has burnt down to ashes. You should also try to bring your own firewood with you.
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