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This time of year, nothing is better than a little hot cocoa around a warm campfire. But why bore your friends and family with the same old, pre-mixed packages? Below, you’ll find 5 creative yet simple campfire hot chocolate recipes that will add a little flavor to your next overnight trip! Liven up your favorite winter beverage up a little with these five ingenious campfire hot chocolate twists. 

1. Spice Would Be Nice

Enhance your hot chocolate by adding a dash of cinnamon or a hint of ground nutmeg to the mix. While preparing the hot chocolate, sprinkle a pinch of these warm spices and let them simmer over the campfire. The subtle, aromatic flavors of the spices will complement the chocolatey goodness and bring a delightful depth to your comforting drink. This simple addition will transform your regular hot chocolate into a festive and flavorful treat, perfect for chilly nights around the campfire.

Overlanding has seen a surge in popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The urge to explore remote terrains, embark on epic journeys, and seek solitude amidst nature has led many to convert their vehicles into a home on wheels, embracing the self-reliant spirit of overlanding. Converting your vehicle into an overland rig equipped with a reliable solar power system is a game-changer, offering freedom, independence, and sustainability on the road. 

Solar power systems, once considered complex and expensive, are now becoming more accessible and affordable for adventurers seeking off-grid solutions. 

In a previous post, we explored the essential steps to convert your vehicle into a full-fledged overland adventure machine. The article highlighted the critical aspects, including vehicle selection, building sleeping and storage spaces, installing a kitchen, adding power sources, insulating the vehicle, setting up a water system, and optimizing the exterior for a comfortable and convenient camping experience. This comprehensive guide detailed each step crucial for a successful overlanding transformation. 

If you’ve ever wondered what the fuss is about boondocking or heard terms like 'dry camping,' ‘dispersed camping,’ or 'wild camping' being tossed around by your outdoorsy friends, you're in the right place. We're here to shed some light on this unique camping experience, exploring what boondocking entails and what it doesn't. 
 

What is Boondocking? 

Boondocking combines two essential elements: the style of camping and the location where you set up camp. First, boondocking refers to a style of camper/RV camping. Typically, one can expect boondocking to be a bit more rugged than setting up at the nearest KOA campground. What sets it apart is the absence of the usual campground facilities such as water, electricity, and sewer hookups, not to mention restrooms, water taps, or neatly arranged picnic tables. It's a return to the basics of camping: just you, your camper, and a secluded piece of nature to call home for a night or two. The icing on the cake? Boondocking is often free, though an occasional permit might be necessary. 

Campers are a diverse bunch. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just getting your feet wet in the world of the great outdoors, understanding your camping style can help you tailor your adventures to your unique preferences. There are various "types" of campers, each with a distinct approach to the wilderness. So, which kind of camper are you? Let's dive into these five types of camping enthusiasts to find out:

1. The Trailblazing Explorer 

Much like the explorers of old, such as Magellan or Pizzaro, these campers are the pioneers of the wilderness. They're the ones who eagerly seek uncharted territories and untrodden paths. Trailblazing Explorers find their true bliss when they push themselves to the limits. They excel at getting off the beaten path and often find amazing sights and experiences in places others aren’t willing to look. If you're the type who constantly spots opportunities to enhance your outdoor experience, you're a Trailblazing Explorer.

There's something magical about that first sip of coffee in the backcountry of a vast wilderness beneath the star-studded canopy. The taste is richer, the aroma more invigorating, the caffeine more stimulating. It can feel as if all five of your senses are somehow more alive. In this guide, we're not just talking about brewing coffee; we're diving deep into the art of becoming a serious backwoods barista. No matter if you're a seasoned camper or a newbie, these pro tips will ensure your backcountry coffee is the talk of the trail. 

Start with Pristine Backcountry Water

One often overlooked aspect of brewing coffee in the backcountry is water quality. The best coffee starts with clean, fresh water. If your campsite has access to a natural water source, always filter it to remove impurities and then bring it to a boil. Clean water ensures a pure coffee taste. 

The Cowboy Coffee Classic

For the true cowboy coffee experience, start by freshly grinding your coffee beans. This imparts a depth of flavor that pre-ground coffee just can't match. Bring a hand-crank coffee grinder with you to maintain that rustic vibe. 

Cowboy coffee is known for its dark, thick texture. To achieve this, some folks add an egg to the grounds. This might seem unconventional, but it helps coagulate the grounds and settle them to the bottom of the pot, resulting in a grit-free brew.