Can you really go camping without a tent? Is that even a thing?
Let’s be real—when most of us think “camping,” we picture pitching a tent.
But listen up: you can totally have an epic outdoor adventure without setting one up.
As wild as it may seem, you can totally sleep under the stars or in DIY shelters and wake up fine the next morning.
Here’s the deal on how to camp with no tent:
Different Ways To Camp Tent-Free
There are actually tons of options for spending nights outside those four walls.
Check it out.
Backpacking Without A Tent
It’s totally doable to ditch your tent to lighten your pack, but it’s important to still bring must-have gear:
Sleeping bag and sleeping pad: without a tent, you might need a portable bed with more insulation depending on temperatures
Camping hammocks: sleeping on the ground can be pretty uncomfortable, so pack compact and cozy camping hammocks
Tarp or bivy sack: whether you need to block the elements or not, this provides an overhead shelter
Bug net: for a peaceful night, bring this essential bug protection (and combine it with repellants)
Cowboy Camping
This is the easiest thing ever and has been popular for a while (we started doing it more than 15 years ago).
Cowboy camping is just you and your camping pad on the ground; nothing else. Needless to say, you need to keep an eye out for rain and other nasty weather conditions.
Car Camping
Use your car to your advantage: just crack the windows and pop the hatchback.
There’s a whole universe of different car camping possibilities (setting up an overhead tent, bringing an RV, etc.) but the point is the same: you can go car camping without a tent and have a great time.
Hammock Camping
Just string up your hammock between two trees, toss in your sleeping bag, and voila — you’re ready to crash.
Hammocks are super lightweight and let you camp almost anywhere: they are perfect for adventurers who want to keep things simple and chill.
Like cowboy camping, you need to keep an eye on rain forecasts.
Natural Shelters
Using forest finds, lash ’em together to make a basic A-frame with sticks and branches and you’re golden. Or pile pine needles against a fallen log for a backrest – your call.
Just be sure not to damage healthy plants and don’t try this in the middle of a storm.
Choosing a Campsite for Camping Without a Tent
Having the perfect spot and conditions lets you enjoy camping even without a tent.
Keep this in mind when picking a sweet site:
Look for natural windbreaks, like hills or trees
Find flat, smooth ground and steer clear of rocks and roots that might jab you all night
Make camping more convenient by staying close to parking, bathrooms, and water
Believe it or not, you can control temperatures by scouting sites with morning sun but afternoon shade
Also, campsites that allow fires will help you stay warm and keep any bugs away (bring your mosquito net and use insect repellant!)
Always scope out your campsite carefully, and pick a spot with a natural shelter that fits your vibe.
A little planning goes a long way, so don’t be afraid to spend some time doing your research.
Sleeping Tips and Tricks
Here’s the thing: if you want a good night’s sleep while bunking down outside of a tent, you need to spend some time preparing, and learn some tips & tricks to make your life easier.
Sleeping Bag Hacks
Here are some sleeping bag hacks to improve your camping experience:
Unzip two bags and layer them together for extra insulation
Put one inside the other for extra water resistance
Go for a rectangular shape to get a closed-foot box but an open upper half
Stay Warm and Dry
It can be freezing out there, especially when you go camping without a tent, so:
For extra layers of warmth, rock a beanie, thick socks, and base layers
Throw over a tarp in case of rain or drippy tree sap
Gear You’ll Need
First time camping with no tent and you’re not sure what to pack?
Honestly, it’s the same gear you’d prep for a regular camping trip.
Just add some extra protection for warmth and bugs since you won’t have tent walls shielding you and you’ll be good to go.
Still scratching your head?
Here’s a handy checklist of what to pack:
Heavy-duty sleeping bag and pad
Compact pillow (pro tip: stuff your clothes in a sack)
Lightweight long underwear
Tarp, rainfly, or plastic sheet for overhead cover
Mosquito suit so you don’t get eaten alive
Lantern or headlamp — it gets pitch black out there!
You’re all set for an epic camping adventure.
Just make sure you pack the right stuff, stay out of trouble, and have the time of your life out in nature.
Dealing with Challenges
Think you’re exempt from issues just because you’re going tent-free?
Think again—with or without a tent, challenges are lurking.
Weather, bugs, you name it. They can totally ruin your trip if you’re not prepared.
Here are some tips to handle them:
Rain
Check the weather forecast ahead and don’t go if a storm is rolling in.
Bugs
Douse yourself in natural bug spray and rock-protective clothing; or light a smoky fire with herb bundles to shoo away insects.
Rocky Ground
Clear rocks, sticks, and debris from your sleeping spot.
Feeling Exposed
You never know what’s out there in the wild.
Another reason to stay close to bathrooms or buildings is that you can duck in there if needed
Keep a whistle handy to call for help
As tempting as it is to feel at home, skip the fave PJs and go for pants and a shirt that let you move quickly
Always follow your gut and be more cautious in your surroundings.
Tips for a Successful No-Tent Camping Experience
We hope that there’s no question in your mind that you can crush your first no-tent camping trip.
Keep these extra tips in mind:
Pack backup gear like emergency bivies in case your plans go sideways
Be ready to pack up at dawn and find shade/shelter during the day
Avoid camping near rivers, lakes, or flood zones where the weather can change on a dime
Use battery-powered fans to stay cool in stuffy sleeping bags
Eat lighter dinners to dodge nighttime bathroom runs
Stay hydrated and chug water in the evening so you’re not parched overnight
Soak your clothes and bandana in water for easy, breezy cooling
Embrace the early wake-up call; you’ll catch mind-blowing sunrises
Savor the fresh air, natural soundtrack, and up-close wildlife encounters. Just use good judgment, expect the unexpected, and appreciate the beauty of simplicity.
