Over the years, the rate of camping has increased immensely. According to the Statista Research Department, 40.52 million people in America participated in camping in 2012. And eight years later, the number skyrocketed to 47.94 million.
Though camping might have some difficulties, technology has emerged to make things easier. And technology helps campers through camping applications, giving them a smooth experience. So, apps such as WikiCamps, The Dyrt, Dark Sky, BackCountry Navigator, and Offline Survival Guide improve the camping experience.
First of all, WikiCamps provides users with valuable pieces of information concerning dump stations, backpacker hostels, and water taps across Canada, the United Kingdom, and America. Also, the application gives users information on RV parks and standard campgrounds. Since it acts as a crowdsourced app, the number of parks and campsites changes as people report their discoveries.
In addition, campers without access to the internet can download and use maps from WikiCamps. It has a digital compass, and campers can connect with their counterparts. WikiCamps is available on Android and iOS devices, and the free version comes with ads. Campers can purchase the ad-free version for $1.99.
Next, The Dyrt assists campers with selecting a suitable spot as their base camp by gathering user reviews and pictorial representations for more than 42,000 campgrounds across America. Through this app, campers can also reserve specific campsites. Likewise, The Dyrt makes camping gears available to its top reviewers for free as an incentive.
More so, Android and iOS users can access the application for free. However, the Pro version costs $35.99 each year, and it permits campers to access maps and listings offline. So, before purchasing the Pro, campers have access to a seven-day free trial.
The weather conditions can make or mar a camping trip, so having first-hand information about the weather forecast of a specific site is necessary. Fortunately, the Dark Sky app aids campers with such information. This app lets one know when the rain will begin or end. It also accurately predicts a storm's occurrence and location, and campers can schedule custom notifications to get information on weather changes.
In addition, Dark Sky has local and global maps that enable the above functions. The application is available on iOS devices, and campers get access to the 14-day free trial before paying $3.99 to purchase it.
As an application that allows users to access topographical maps offline, BackCountry Navigator derives its maps from several sources, including USGS Color Aerial photography, OpenStreetMaps, and NASA Landsat data. In addition, the application is compatible with Android Wear. So, campers can view the maps on their wrist for comfort. Finally, the application is exclusive to Android users, and campers can try out the free version. It also has in-app purchases; for instance, the Accuterra Map Source costs $19.99 a year.
The Offline Survival Guide app provides campers with some valuable life-coping tips; how to construct shelters, make fires, treat injuries, and find food and water. Likewise, the application educates users on surviving in harsh environments like tropical areas, the sea, and deserts. Also, it shares reasonable steps for power generation.
More importantly, the Offline Survival Guide provides information on the nature of plants. Campers can spot a poisonous plant using this app. In sum, Android users can access the application at no cost.