Essential Camping Gear for Coastal Adventures: Your Ultimate Packing List

Camping near coastal areas offers a unique and exhilarating experience. The sound of crashing waves, the salty breeze, and breathtaking ocean views make for unforgettable memories. However, the coastal environment comes with its own challenges—unpredictable weather, sandy terrain, and high humidity. To ensure a comfortable and safe adventure, packing the right gear is crucial. Here’s an overview of must-have items for your next coastal camping trip, whether it is a rainy hike on the West Coast Trail, or a hot, sunny kayaking trip on Johnstone Strait.

Room with a view!

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1. Shelter: Protection Against the Elements

Coastal weather can change rapidly, so having a reliable shelter is essential.

Tents:

• Opt for a tent with strong wind resistance, such as one with a low profile and sturdy aluminum poles.
• A full-coverage rainfly and taped seams will protect against sudden downpours.
• Look for a tent with good ventilation to prevent condensation buildup from humid air.

Shelter Tarps:

• Shelter tarps, with pre-attached guy lines are great for creating a dry space where you can pack or just get out of rain.
• These tarps can also provide protection against sun, and hot, sunny days, a good tarp can be invaluable.
• Know how to set up a tarp with no trees around-hiking poles and paddles are great for this.

Ground Tarps:

• Place a tarp under your tent to protect the floor from sharp rocks, sand, and dampness.

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2. Sleeping Gear: Stay Warm and Comfortable

Despite coastal locations being near the water, temperatures can drop significantly at night.

Sleeping Bags:

• Choose a sleeping bag rated for temperatures slightly lower than the expected nighttime lows.
• Synthetic insulation works best for coastal conditions as it retains warmth even when damp.

Sleeping Pads or Mattresses:

• A sleeping pad adds insulation between you and the cold, damp ground. Look for waterproof options for added protection.

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3. Cooking Essentials: Coastal Cuisine Made Easy

Making lunch

Camp Stove or Portable Grill:

• A compact and windproof stove is ideal. Coastal winds can make open-fire cooking challenging (but not impossible!).
• Bring plenty of fuel to account for longer cooking times in windy conditions.

Cookware:

• Opt for lightweight, non-stick pots and pans that are easy to clean.
• Don’t forget utensils, a sharp knife, and a cutting board for meal prep.

Food Storage:

• Use airtight containers or dry bags to keep food safe from moisture and curious wildlife.
• A portable cooler with ice packs is perfect for keeping perishables fresh.

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4. Navigation and Safety Gear

Maps and Compass/GPS Device:

• Coastal trails can be winding and remote. A detailed map or GPS device ensures you stay on track.
• If you are kayaking in foggy conditions, you will absolutely need some form of navigation equipment. 
• Know how to use your equipment. Take a course if you need to.

First Aid Kit:

• Include supplies for treating cuts, scrapes, and stings, as well as medications for allergies or upset stomachs.

Headlamp or Flashlight:

• Coastal fog and early sunsets can limit visibility. Pack extra batteries for extended trips.

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5. Clothing: Be Prepared for Changing Weather

Prepared in different ways!

Waterproof Layers:

• A high-quality rain jacket and pants will keep you dry during sudden showers.

Quick-Drying Clothing:

• Synthetic or wool materials dry quickly and provide warmth even when damp.

Footwear:

• Waterproof hiking boots or shoes with good traction are a must for rocky or wet trails.
• Pack sandals or water shoes for exploring tide pools or kayaking.

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6. Specialty Coastal Gear

Dry Bags:

• Use dry bags to store electronics, clothes, and other items that need protection from water.

Beach Blanket or Chair:

• Enjoy relaxing on the sand without bringing it into your tent later.

Bug Repellent and Sunscreen:

• Coastal areas often have biting insects, especially in marshy regions. A good sunscreen is equally essential to protect against the strong reflection of sunlight off the water.

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7. Extra Tips for Coastal Camping Success

• Check Tide Charts: If camping near the beach, be aware of high and low tide times to avoid setting up camp in a flood zone.
• Anchor Your Tent: Use sand stakes or bury regular stakes horizontally to secure your tent in soft, sandy soil.
• Plan for Salt Exposure: Saltwater can be corrosive; rinse gear like stoves and cooking utensils with fresh water after use.

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With the right gear, camping by the coast can be both comfortable and memorable. A little extra preparation goes a long way in ensuring your adventure is safe, enjoyable, and stress-free. So pack up, head to the shore, and let the waves lull you to sleep under the stars! And if you want to streamline your whole experience, come with us at Coastal Bliss Adventures.

What’s your favorite piece of coastal camping gear? Share your tips in the comments below!

Coastal Adventures Tips and Tricks: wet weather, sandy terrain, and high humidity

Stepping into a coastal environment, you’ll quickly realize you’re not just following a path—you’re stepping into a living, shifting landscape. The weather can morph in moments. One second, it’s clear skies and bright sun; the next, a sudden gust off the water brings mist and drizzle. Layering is essential. Whether you are hiking, kayaking, canoeing, or surfing, as a camping trip, several pitfalls can make that experience uncomfortable or dangerous.

Being on the coast is about being warm. Forget about dry. On most coasts north of about 43̊, the summer rain is intermittent, but it is persistent when it comes. Remaining dry is difficult. You may be warm while doing your activity, but back in camp, it is easy to get cold when wet.

Dealing with rain

Tip 1a: Bring lightweight rain gear and moisture-wicking clothing. These let you respond to nature’s mood swings with ease. Don’t plan on staying dry in your rain gear unless you have shelter. If you are hiking, the rain gear will not keep you dry-the rain still gets in. I wear light rain gear while hiking and a light paddling jacket while kayaking, just to keep the wind from adding that extra chill to the wetness. I have had good success with a second light rain layer (I have a very light waterproof anorak) that I wear under the over layer, but I still can’t remain completely dry while hiking or kayaking.

Tip 1b: plan on NOT being dry, but being WARM. It is essential to plan on layers for warmth, but those layers need to be warm even when wet. Bring dry clothes that remain dry because you do not wear them outside your tent. Put wet clothes from the day before while hiking or kayaking back on for your new day’s activity. When you are active (enough), then you are warm. When you get to camp, change to dry clothes and manage your time and exposure to rain and wet to stay dry, and warm.

Tip 2: Staying dry in camp is not only about clothing. Make sure your tent is waterproof before you leave. Learn how to set up tarps that shed water in all types of situations-with trees, without trees, with wind, etc. Consider a tarp and a tent as another layer that keeps you dry.

Tip 3: Bring plenty of fuel and a good stove. When it is cold, a good amount of warm fluids and food can help stay warm, and lighten the mood. The tendency with hiking is to take only what is necessary, but consider an extra day or two worth of fuel as necessary. The weight of fuel is less of a consideration when kayaking and canoeing, so packing extra fuel is not usually a question. Don’t forget the invaluable extra hot drinks-tea bags, coffee, hot chocolate!

Dealing with sand

The terrain itself can surprise you, too. Unlike the firmer footing of inland trails, coastal paths are ruled by sand, slippery rocks and sea shelf, and shifting shore grasses. Every step may sink a bit, slow your pace, and require more effort. Consider trekking poles for balance and wear shoes or boots that shed sand easily. There’s a graceful rhythm to navigating these beaches, a gentle dance of foot placement and patience. But the sand presents another challenge to coastal trips-what it gets into.

Tip 4: Take extra time to get the sand off of yourself every day, especially before you start any activity. Sand on your feet while hiking can cause dramatic and painful blisters. Make sure you are meticulous about getting the sand off your feet. When you are hiking, of course, your feet are your mode of transportation. Protect your feet! Also get the sand out of other areas. Sand that gets into your clothes from can also cause chafing and blisters in other areas as they rub together. Wet sand sticks to everything, so if it is rainy or foggy, pay extra attention.

Tip 5: Sand can clog the fuel in stoves. Also be meticulous about keeping your stove out of the sand. Find something to set it up on above any sand level. Make it difficult to walk close to the stove so that sand does not accidentally get kicked into it-this is also a good protection from getting the stove knocked over while cooking. Before you put the stove away for the night or to continue your travels, give it a good wipe down and make sure any bags or containers that the stove goes into also is sand free.

And then there’s the relentless humidity that accompanies the salt-kissed breezes. Do not expect anything to dry. The humidity in the air can make it almost impossible to dry clothes and foot wear. The high humidity often perpetuates the difficulties already mentioned. Embrace it as a reminder that you’re traveling along an intersection of land and sea—an environment teeming with life, movement, and unpredictable beauty.

It may not be easy, but coastal camping and travel rewards those who embrace the surprises. Suddenly, a break in the clouds reveals a dazzling ocean view. A scattering of shells or a dramatic bluff catches your eye. With careful preparation and a spirit of adventure, you’ll find that these challenging conditions only enhance the magic of walking on the edge of the world. To go with experts that can teach you more tips and tricks, visit Coastal Bliss Adventures.

Exploring Vancouver Island: Pros and Cons of Wilderness Trips in May, June, July, and August

Vancouver Island is a dream destination for wilderness enthusiasts, offering a stunning combination of rugged coastlines, lush forests, and diverse ecosystems. Whether you're planning to camp, hike, kayak, or canoe, choosing the right time for your adventure is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of wilderness trips on Vancouver Island during May, June, July, and August.

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May: Spring Awakens

Pros:

• Fewer Crowds: May is still part of the shoulder season, so popular trails like the West Coast Trail or spots like Strathcona Provincial Park are less crowded.
• Burst of Wildflowers: Coastal and alpine meadows come alive with wildflowers, making the scenery especially vibrant.
• Milder Temperatures: Daytime temperatures are comfortable, and you’re less likely to experience the heat of summer.
• Lower Prices: Campsites, ferries, and gear rentals may be more affordable than in peak summer months.

Cons:

• Unpredictable Weather: Rainfall is still a possibility, and coastal areas can feel damp.
• Cooler Nights: Expect chilly evenings, so pack appropriate gear.
• Trail Conditions: Some trails may still be muddy or snow-covered, especially at higher elevations.

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June: A Balance of Spring and Summer

Pros:

• Longer Days: June offers extended daylight, giving you more time for exploration.
• Warmer Temperatures: Days start to warm up, making water activities like kayaking and canoeing more enjoyable.
• Wildflowers continue: The vibrant blanket of wildflowers remains through much of June in the alpine. Summer flowers come out in coastal areas, still vibrant, but less abundant.
• Wildlife Activity: This is a great time for wildlife viewing, including black bears, bald eagles, and migrating whales.

Cons:

• Mosquito Season: Bugs begin to emerge in full force, especially in forested and wetland areas.
• Crowds Begin to Grow: With school ending and summer approaching, you’ll start to see more visitors on the island.

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July: Peak Summer Begins

Pros:

• Consistently Good Weather: July is one of the driest months, offering sunny skies and pleasant conditions for outdoor adventures.
• Warm Water: Lakes and coastal waters become warmer, perfect for swimming and water sports.
• Festivals and Events: Vancouver Island’s summer events are in full swing, adding cultural experiences to your wilderness trip.

Cons:

• High Season Crowds: Campgrounds and popular spots can be very busy, requiring reservations well in advance.
• Higher Costs: Prices for accommodations and ferry travel tend to spike during peak tourist season.
• Fire Bans: Due to dry conditions, campfires may be restricted in many areas.

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August: Summer in Full Bloom

Pros:

• Optimal Weather: August boasts warm temperatures, minimal rain, and calm seas, making it ideal for coastal kayaking trips.
• Abundant Produce: Local markets are brimming with fresh fruits and vegetables, perfect for supplementing your camping meals.
• Great for Families: The summer holidays make August a popular time for family trips.

Cons:

• Even Larger Crowds: Trails, beaches, and campsites can feel packed, especially during long weekends.
• Limited Availability: Late planners might struggle to find spots at popular campsites or rentals.
• Hot Weather Challenges: Heatwaves can make strenuous hikes more taxing, and staying hydrated becomes critical.
• Fog, Fog, Fog: August is known as "Fogust"-for hiking trips, this can be a benefit because hiking in fog is cooler.

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Tips for Planning Your Wilderness Trip

1. Book Early: If you’re visiting in July or August, secure your camping permits and ferry tickets well in advance.
2. Prepare for Bugs: Bring insect repellent and bug nets, especially in May and June.
3. Pack Layers: Even in the summer, coastal breezes and nighttime temperatures can be cool.
4. Respect Fire Restrictions: Always check for campfire bans and pack a camp stove as an alternative.
5. Plan Off-Peak Activities: For a quieter experience, explore less popular trails or visit during the week instead of weekends.

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Final Thoughts

Every month from May to August offers unique opportunities for wilderness adventures on Vancouver Island. May and June are perfect for those seeking quieter, cooler experiences with abundant wildlife and flowers. July and August provide the best weather for water activities and family trips, albeit with more crowds and higher costs. By considering your priorities and planning carefully, you can enjoy an unforgettable trip to this outdoor paradise.

Which month will you choose for your Vancouver Island adventure? Let Coastal Bliss Adventures help you plan your perfect trip with expert advice and gear recommendations.

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

How Coastal Bliss Adventures Feeds You On Your Journey

When it comes to multi-day hiking, kayaking, or backcountry camping trips, food isn’t just fuel—it’s part of the adventure, and must taste good. Coastal Bliss Adventures takes this philosophy to heart, crafting meals that are lightweight, nutritionally balanced, free from unnecessary additives, and tasty. Our approach to food preparation ensures that every adventurer is ready to conquer the trail with energy, vitality, and a satisfied palate. Here’s a little information about how we prepare food for tours.

Dehydrating Food: The Key to Lightweight Nutrition

One of the most significant challenges of trail cuisine is weight. Every ounce counts when you’re carrying gear, and that’s why dehydration is a cornerstone of our food preparation for hiking trips. Dehydration removes water content, drastically reducing the weight of food while preserving its nutrients and flavor.

From savory pasta sauces to hearty stews and flavorful snacks, dehydrated meals are carefully prepared in advance. This process not only makes the food portable but also extends its shelf life—perfect for multi-day excursions. When it’s time to eat, just add water, and you’re treated to a meal that’s as satisfying as it is efficient.

Balancing Nutrition for High-Energy Activities

Backcountry adventures demand a lot from your body. Long days of hiking rugged trails or paddling along scenic coastlines require a careful balance of macronutrients: proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. We craft our menus to provide the right mix:

• Proteins to repair and build muscles after a day of activity.
• Carbohydrates to replenish glycogen stores and maintain energy.
• Fats to provide long-lasting fuel for endurance.

Whether it’s a carb and fiber-rich breakfast to kickstart your day, a protein-rich lunch to keep you going, or a nourishing dinner that hits all the right nutritional notes, we ensure you’re fueled for success.

Strenuous wilderness activities take between 3,000 and 4,500 calories per day, and a balance of carbs, proteins, and fats to be optimal. We have researched the proper proportsions for these activities, and our daily menus all have roughly those proportions-1/3, 1/3, 1/3, to ensure you are well fed all the way through.

Minimizing Additives for Clean Eating on the Trail

Many pre-packaged trail meals are loaded with preservatives, artificial flavors, and excess sodium. We take a different approach, focusing on clean, wholesome ingredients. By preparing our own dehydrated meals, we can better control what goes into them. Although we do include some packaged foods, we look for those with fewer additives when we can.

The result? Meals that taste great and leave you feeling good. With minimal unnecessary additives, you can focus on the natural flavors of real food, which pairs beautifully with the pristine wilderness settings we are known for.

A Thoughtful Approach to Food Preparation

The dedication Coastal Bliss Adventures brings to their meal preparation goes beyond practicality—it’s about enhancing the overall experience. Meals are planned to suit dietary preferences and restrictions, ensuring that every adventurer feels cared for. 

Not all our food is dehydrated, even for hiking trips. We still bring some fresh vegetables, and we can't really dehydrate the cheeses. These choices are to ensure the best nutrition, but also to meet that great overall food experience. 

Canoeing and Kayaking trips have a broader range of foods, because we are not carrying it on our backs, but the same care is taken for preparing menus and meals. We use whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables when available. 

From snacks to keep you energized on the move to hot, satisfying dinners at camp, every bite is designed to complement the physical demands of your adventure while adding to the enjoyment of your journey.

Ready to Explore?

Coastal Bliss Adventures isn’t just about getting you from point A to point B. They’re about making every moment of the journey—from the trail to the dining experience—unforgettable. Their thoughtful approach to food preparation is just one of the many ways they ensure your adventure is not only challenging and fulfilling but also delicious.

So pack your boots and appetite, and let us take care of the rest. Your adventure awaits!

Want to learn more or book your next adventure? Visit Coastal Bliss Adventures.

The Real World (not the TV show)

Just what is the Real World?  We have seen many changes over the last few decades to how we live. When we consider our grandparents and great-grandparents, then the totality of that change is much, much greater. The change has been a long march into more and more artificial environments. But most of that is not real, at least based on our evolutionary journey to get here. We don't live in the real world.

In pre-industrial times, we may have lived in towns or small villages. We had simple shelter, the light of the day, and the rhythm of the seasons to guide our activities. Life was centered on gathering and preparing food, storing provisions for winter, and meeting basic needs. This required movement, effort, and interaction with the natural world. The sun woke us, the weather directed our plans, and the earth provided everything we depended on.

Fast forward to today. We wake up in climate-controlled boxes, shielded from the natural elements. Instead of the sun, it's the glow of an alarm clock or phone screen that stirs us. Our daily activities often revolve around artificial light, synthetic surroundings, and virtual interactions. We look at flat screens for hours—work, entertainment, and connection all mediated through this glowing rectangle. At the end of the day, many of us are more familiar with the layout of Netflix than the stars in the night sky.

The Disconnect from Our Evolutionary Design

Humans are a product of millions of years of evolution, shaped by living in dynamic, three-dimensional environments filled with natural light, fresh air, and varied sensory input. We were designed to move—walking, running, climbing—and to solve problems directly tied to our survival. Our ancestors didn’t stare at spreadsheets or scroll through social media; they scanned landscapes, tracked animals, and cultivated relationships through face-to-face interaction.

Now, most of our lives are lived in spaces that are static and square. Our bodies are often stationary, seated at desks or in cars. Our "hunt" is a trip to the supermarket or an online delivery service. The disconnect between how we evolved and how we live has led to a host of modern maladies: chronic stress, anxiety, depression, obesity, and even nature-deficit disorder—a term that encapsulates the profound consequences of our separation from the natural world.

The Illusion of Progress

Technological advancements have brought undeniable benefits. Medicine, communication, and infrastructure have improved our lives in many ways. Yet, in the rush toward progress, we've lost something fundamental: our connection to the "real world." This isn't just about nature but about authenticity—a life lived in harmony with our biology and the environment.

Our grandparents may have lived simpler lives, but they were often richer in what truly matters. They understood the satisfaction of physical labor, the joy of seasonal abundance, and the importance of community. Their world may have been less convenient, but it was more aligned with the rhythms of life that humans evolved to thrive in.

Reclaiming the Real World

So, what can we do to bridge this gap? How can we reclaim a more authentic way of living while still enjoying the benefits of modernity?

1. Spend Time Outdoors-Make nature a priority. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the woods, or simply sitting under a tree, reconnecting with the outdoors helps ground us and restore our sense of balance.
2. Move More-Break out of the sedentary cycle. Engage in activities that mimic the natural movement patterns of our ancestors, like walking, stretching, or functional strength training.
3. Disconnect to Reconnect-Limit screen time and create space for real-world interactions. Practice mindfulness and immerse yourself in the present moment without digital distractions.
4. Eat with the Seasons-Choose foods that are fresh, local, and in season. This not only supports health but also deepens our connection to the cycles of nature.
5. Simplify and Reassess Priorities-Focus on what truly matters: relationships, experiences, and well-being. Question whether the constant pursuit of material possessions or virtual validation aligns with your core values.

The Path Forward

We can’t turn back the clock, nor should we romanticize the past as a perfect ideal. But we can learn from it. Our ancestors lived closer to the earth, and in doing so, they found a richness in simplicity. The challenge today is finding ways to integrate that wisdom into our modern lives. By doing so, we can begin to live in a way that honors both our evolutionary heritage and the possibilities of the present.

Our mission at Coastal Bliss Adventures is to get you closer to that Real World, and give you real experiences that connect you back to your evolutionary past, to help you feel and remember what you actually evolved to be.

Preparing for a busy season in 2022!

 So far, we have a good set of bookings for Summer 2022. We have 6 of 8 West Coast Trails tours assured of running with current bookings, and one that is looking good to run. We also have hiking tours running on the Nootka Island Trail and Juan de Fuca Trail. Sea kayaking tours are running in the Southern Gulf Islands and the Broken Group Islands. We have a number of school and youth groups running multi-day programs with us as well. 

2021 was very busy with our Bioluminescence Tours in Cowichan Bay, and we expect this summer to be just as busy, if not busier. People are getting out and enjoying our incredible island. We have been seeing large numbers of people out this winter on the local trails. We are even doing an occasional kayak rental in January! 

We are looking forward to a great season for 2022.

New Website...Again! Five Years Later!

This is from December 31, 2013:

"We have been working on this for a while, trying to get you the quickest, most helpful information on each page to decide to come join us on an adventure.

We are also working on a mobile version for those of you who do all your stuff on your journeys, on the small screen.

Check out our new site format at www.coastalbliss.ca."

Five years later, on December 31, 2018, we launched our next website remake! Lots of the same information on similar pages, but with a new, modern look and feel...and finally got that small screen version rocking for your phones and tablets.

Our trip pages also have a new look and feel, with a video background on the top portion, trip detail information contained in accordians, and a lot of the great testimonials we have received from you, our guests, inspiring us to keep improving your experience.

Thanks for the memories and the inspiration.

Home page image:

Our video backgrounds for page tops:

Hiking:

Kayaking: