When you think of a camper, the first thing that comes to mind might be rugged clothing, hiking boots, and someone who enjoys a few days without running water. However, that image only captures one end of the broad spectrum of camping experiences.

Today, most people approach the great outdoors in their own way: some prefer a rustic cabin, some love hammock camping, and others are all about rooftop tents and overland vehicles. 

With so many different ways to spend time outside (especially in South Africa), there’s no single definition of a camper anymore.

This article serves as a fun guide that will help you discover your camping personality and match it with the right camping gear for your next destination.

The Glamper

You’re not here to suffer. You’re here to unwind, take in the serenity and beauty of the woods, and still sleep in a proper bed with space to stretch. Glampers love comfort and aesthetics without losing that wilderness feel, and you know what, that’s a perfectly valid way of camping!

Ideal Gear Setup:

• A glamping tent with ample headroom and easy setup

• Soft bedding or inflatable mattresses

• Stylish storage box options

• Camping chairs, tables, and lighting accessories

• Access to running water, electricity, and outdoor showers

Top Pick: 6.3 Air Pole Inflatable Cotton Glamping Tent
Spacious, breathable, and easy to set up, this is the ultimate tent for campers who value convenience and comfort at their campsite.

Glampers also enjoy renting luxury campsites where covered communal spaces and good amenities reduce the worry of unpredictable weather.

The Hardcore Hiker

You live for the trek; in fact, you thrive in it. Carrying everything you need on your back and pushing into the wilderness is what gets you going. Living on the edge is just part of the experience, and the vast unknown that comes with a hike only adds to the thrill. There’s no climb you wouldn’t attempt and no trail too rough to tackle.

Ideal Gear Setup:

• Lightweight tent

• Compact sleeping bag with excellent insulation

• Minimalist cooking gear and easy-to-carry supplies

• Rugged backpack with good weight distribution

• Sharp planning skills and a sense of adaptability

You’ll be figuring out routes on the fly, dealing with cold nights, and pushing yourself to new limits. Investing in the right ultralight equipment means the difference between an epic story told around a braai and a hard-learned lesson.

The Reset Seeker

You love a quick escape from the concrete jungle because there is nothing like just a couple of nights under the stars to recharge. You’re not going fully off-grid like the hardcore hiker, but you still want a digital detox through experiencing what Mother Nature has to offer.

Ideal Gear Setup:

• Easy-setup tent camping kit

• All-weather sleeping bag for varying conditions

• Cooler box, food, and portable kitchen gear

• A comfortable car camping arrangement

• Essentials stock packed and ready to go

Reset Seekers usually spend less than half a day setting up their site. Renting extra gear like tables, chairs, and even shower kits is a popular option for making trips feel effortless.

Your best destination might be a quiet campground near a river or an easy-access spot.

The 4x4 Drifter

You live and breathe the quote, "It's not about the destination, it's about the journey." That feeling of setting off toward the vast unknown, vehicle packed with everything you need for a week in the wilderness, never gets old for you.

Ideal Gear Setup:

• Vehicle-mounted or adjacent tent

• Durable overlanding gear: racks, tanks, and storage boxes

• Rugged camping gear suited for rough terrain

• Solar chargers or battery systems for electricity

• A well-thought-out storage solution for longer trips

Off-roaders know that figuring out repairs and workarounds is part of the adventure. Invest in reliable accessories to make each trip as smooth and safe as possible, even when off-roading takes you into more remote areas.

If you're a 4x4 Drifter, don't forget to visit remote gems like the Richtersveld, where solitude and beauty make every challenge worthwhile.

The Hammock Camper / Minimalist

You’re the purest kind of adventurer. By pure, we mean minimalist. The purest adventurer only needs the basic essentials and their hammock, no other fieterjasies.

Ideal Gear Setup:

• Strong hammock camping kit (with bug net and tarp)

• Lightweight sleeping bag

• Minimalist cooking setup and basic supplies

• Backpack with enough capacity but little weight

Hammock camping is ideal for nature lovers who enjoy the outdoors, appreciate easy setups, and prefer sleeping off the ground. If you’re keen on freedom and the incredible stillness of nature, this style suits you perfectly.

Pro tip: Always check for strong, sturdy anchor points before setting up camp.

Choosing Gear That Matches Your Style

Before you purchase new camping essentials, consider:

• How often you camp

• How much you’re willing to invest in quality gear

• Your comfort needs (will you miss warm showers and soft beds?)

• The destination’s accessibility and weather risks

The right camping gear removes the worry from your trip and enhances your sense of freedom and excitement. No matter if you’re renting a luxury cabin or trekking into the wilderness for a week, planning makes all the difference.

Ready for Your Next Outdoor Adventure?

Naturehike offers a full range of camping gear, equipment, and accessories online, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your next journey.

Forget the stress, pack your passion, and trust your instincts. The great outdoors is waiting.