Camping has always been one of those experiences that stays with me.
Back then when I was kid, I used to camp quite often, not only in forests or mountains, but also in simple places. Even now living in Jakarta, I still try to create that feeling. One time, I set up a small camping moment in the front yard of my house with my two toddler girls to celebrate New Year’s Eve. It was just a simple tent, some snacks, and the excitement of sleeping outside.
For them, it felt like a big adventure, and for me, it was a warm reminder that camping is really about creating memories.
My last serious camping trip before marriage life was during college, back in 2008. We camped in the forest, and I really enjoyed the experience. Proper tents, proper trekking, and time away from the city made everything feel refreshing. The trekking experience in tropical forests is something special. The smell of wet soil, the sound of leaves, and the fresh air create a feeling that is difficult to replace, especially compared to the city of Jakarta.
About two years ago, I went camping again with my office mates as part of an office event in West Java. It was a good experience after such a long time. The trekking route was challenging enough to make it exciting, and everything around us felt fresh. The water was clear, the air was cold, and the environment felt peaceful. It reminded me how much nature can reset our minds after daily routines in the city.
But my best camping experience was during junior high school when I joined Jambore Cabang at Bumi Perkemahan Simbarwangi, Bendungan, Kabupaten Trenggalek. That trip made me realize that I probably cannot handle extreme cold very well. It was the coldest camping experience I have ever had. My skin became very dry, my lips cracked badly, and even my skin started peeling. It was uncomfortable, but that is exactly why I still remember it so clearly.
Sometimes, the hardest camping experience becomes the most unforgettable one.