Whatever makes you happy

The art of camping isn't about expensive gear or perfect sites but about enjoying every moment together

- By Linda Brink

Not too long ago, I was sitting around a small campfire with friends when the conversation turned to a rather philosophical question: “What's the best way to camp?” As with any of life's big questions, there's no easy answer. What did become clear, though, is that the camping species – (campus generalis), if you will – is made up of several tribes, each with its own customs and rituals.

Let's start with the long-stay camper, the type who has mastered this lifestyle over dozens of seasons. This easygoing tribe quite literally builds a micro-village where you can experience their natural hospitality firsthand. Just ask any long-stayer – camping (or is it staying? ... perhaps even living?) is about far more than a little tent and two picnic chairs. No. These folks bring along everything that isn't nailed down: a caravan, add-on tents for the kids, and then they'll even mark out a little garden on their stand – sometimes complete with a gnome peeking over the hedge. And the patio tent? It's never just a tent. It's strung with colourful fairy lights that twinkle in the trees, has a canvas floor that's swept clean every day, and a fully kitted kitchen where you can prepare anything from rusks to a proper Sunday roast just like your gran's. Watching this camping species so happy and content in their natural habitat, I sometimes think I should put my house up for rent and move in with them.

Long-stayers also tend to live in perfect harmony with one another. Yes, there are rules, but they're of the unwritten, informal kind: drop in if the lights are on, bring your own meat for the braai, your own chair to sit on, your own glasses, plates and cutlery... and never forget to compliment someone's potted plants.