The fire is crackling as you roast marshmallows in preparation for making s’mores. You might be camping on the beach, at a campground or even in your own backyard.

You have a small tent set up a few feet away with just enough room for two. There’s a little chill in the air, but you don’t mind. That just means you’ll have to snuggle closer all night long.

We talk about the importance of unplugging for date night, but why not take it a step further? Really get outside of your comfort zone and go camping together! By removing all distractions of your busy life, you can connect at a most basic level. We’re sharing our top reasons to plan a camping date night as well as a handy checklist to keep in mind as you pack.

Hit the Reset Button

Chances are, your life has become routine. You go to work, tend to the house and kids and have very little time left for yourself let alone your marriage. If you do go on date nights, you might rotate through a handful of go-to activities. It’s time to shake things up!

Hit the reset button on not only your marriage, but also your life. Camping is a great way to escape together and eliminate distractions. Think about it – if you book a weekend stay at a hotel, you’re facing the same distractions you face at home. There’s a TV, your phone will be plugged in next to the bed and you’ll have to drive somewhere to pick up dinner.

Is it the easier choice? Yes. But being a little uncomfortable can be a good thing! That’s what you need in a reset.

Amp Up Your Happiness

Need convincing? Studies show that people who spend more time in nature are happier. It makes sense. Fresh air is good for your health and quiet is good for your mind. There’s just something about being reminded of how small you are in the grand scheme of things. And there’s no better person to experience that with than your partner.

Plan Fun Camping Activities

When you choose a place to camp, consider what activities you enjoy together. If you enjoy being active, hiking and bike trails may be on your list. If you want to relax, a beach campground may be more your speed.

Grill out for dinner and don’t forget the s’mores. Pack a deck of cards and play some classic games as you unwind at the end of the day. If you can stay at a campsite far enough away from the city lights, you can stargaze together before turning in for the night.

Packing for Your Camping Getaway

While this date night can get pricey with all the camping gear, it doesn’t have to. Shop your closets and see what you already have on hand. If you don’t want to invest in a tent and sleeping bags or an air mattress, see if you can borrow them from friends.

Follow this handy checklist as you go:

• Tent
• Sleeping bags or air mattress and pillows
• Flashlight or lantern with batteries
• Instant coffee and snacks
• Utensils, can opener
• Toiletries
• Sunscreen and bug repellant
• Cooler with food for foil-pack meals
• Clothes and sturdy shoes

The simpler you can keep this date night, the more fun it will be.

Don’t pack more than you can carry in one trip to your campsite. Stay one night and see how it goes, or make it worth the effort and stay a few nights.

Once you make the investment in camping gear, this is a great date night getaway to take at least a few times each year.