Running Your Small Business While Camping

Another great guest post from Joyce Wilson!

Time spent outdoors can be good for both physical and mental health, and camping can be a

fun adventure. If you own a small business, you might feel that you can’t leave town and go

camping, but it is possible to do both. Read on for some great tips and resources, courtesy of

GetTheFunOut!

Plan How You’ll Access the Internet

Reliable web access is critical for staying in touch and addressing issues that come up. So

before you go, figure out how you’ll do this. You might be able to use the data plan from your

cell phone if you simply need to be able to text, talk, and email. A portable wifi hotspot can be

the answer in some cases. If the signal at the campground is weak, a portable router to boost

the connection could be helpful. If you’re not going far into the wilderness, public wifi is often

available at campgrounds, local businesses, or places like public libraries. However, if you are

going to a remote area, your best option may be satellite internet, which can be expensive, but it

may be your only option.

Keep Everything Charged

Keeping your devices charged is an important concern. You can bring along extra batteries,

power banks, and even a portable solar-powered charger. Solar generators are also a

possibility, although they may be heavy. As long as the sun shines, you’re in good shape with

solar power, and the other devices will need to be charged periodically at electrical outlets.

Sometimes campgrounds have these, and in other cases, public sources, such as

coffeehouses, where you can plug in will be needed.

Selecting Your Campsite

When possible, your campsite should be selected with internet access in mind. If you’re at a

campground that offers wifi, try to pitch your tent near the router. If you’re using your cell phone,

then areas closer to the highway or to the park entrance may get better reception. Many state

parks offer internet access, although many of the larger national parks do not. Take time to

check as you’re planning your trip. If you’re headed to a remote area and using satellite access

to the internet, then you’ll have more flexibility in where you set up camp. You might want to be

near a covered picnic table or shelter so you’ll have a good place to work, out of the weather

and glare of the sun.

Managing Your Business

Before you depart on the trip, you’ll need to delegate as much of your normal workload as

possible. Some things you can manage remotely, but others will require people physically

present at the business. So while you’re planning, be sure to delegate work to employees,

freelancers, or even a virtual assistant. Try to schedule as few tasks as possible that require the

internet on your end. It’s also important to set regular times that you will check in with the office

and regular hours you plan to work and be available to answer questions. Remember to allow

yourself to enjoy the camping trip as well as keep up with your business.

Next, it’s time to start marketing! These days, social media makes advertising much easier. A

good place to start is with the help of an infographic maker. Then, once you have your

infographic made, spread the word via social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to

grow your customer base.

Consider Continuing Education Courses

Many degrees and certification programs can now be completed online, and although you might

not earn the entire degree while camping, you should be able to keep up if you plan to have wifi

access. In fact, you might get some information technology (IT) certifications that could be quite

useful in balancing running your business and enjoying your love of camping. While researching

IT certificate programs, consider how much in-person time is required, credit hours needed, and

courses offered.

Take the Right Equipment

If you’re camping near your vehicle, you may want to bring a comfortable camp chair and even

a portable desk where you can work. Otherwise, you’ll need a reliable camp light, such as an

LED lantern, and good weather protection for all your electronic gear. Be sure to bring plenty of

extra cords, batteries, and a spare charger and power source.

Although camping and running a business remotely might seem like two incompatible activities,

they don’t have to be. With adequate planning, you can maintain internet access, delegate

many of your responsibilities, enjoy the great outdoors, and keep your business running

smoothly.

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