"So get away to where the boat leaves from. It takes away all of your big problems. You got worries you can drop them in the blue ocean, but you gotta get away to where the boat leaves from." - Zac Brown Band
Summer is here and the draw of lakes, mountains and beaches is diluting enthusiasm to get work done. It's a time when Canadians "recharge their batteries", relax and take in the special beauty of this country. The reality, however, is that many of us simply can't take a true vacation during the summer. However, with a little preparation, time scheduling and technology, it is possible to enjoy the weather AND get your work done (think: mini working vacation).
Camping is an activity that I particularly enjoy. Sitting in front of a warm campfire with friends and family is one of my favourite things. I know from previous trips to Crimson Lake Provincial Park in west central Alberta that the campground has excellent 3G+ wireless coverage so I decided to take an extended weekend and work from a campsite on Thursday and Friday (relaxing the rest of the weekend). It was a great experience.
Here are my top 5 tips for working from a campground:
1 - Let your campsite companions know your schedule
If you plan on working from your campsite, let your campmates know well in advance. They are likely happy to give you the space, quiet and support you need during the day in order to have you enjoy the wilderness with them during the warm evenings. However, if you say you will be done by a certain time, don't be late - they may be waiting for you to join in the fun.
Although it's a little more challenging when children are along, it's not an impenetrable barrier. Ensure kids understand your schedule and that there are some times during the day when quiet is needed. As you take breaks during the day, take them for a walk, canoe ride or to simply toss stones into the creek. Both of you will enjoy the break and keep reminding yourself how much better it is than being at the office right now!
2 - Setup a workspace
Just like any mobile office, finding and setting up your workspace is crucial. If you have a trailer or camper, you can easily create a comfortable spot inside. If you are a tent camper, a picnic table is your best bet since they are sturdy and have lots of space.
Canadian summers can also bring a workspace challenge: weather changes. Would you be able to continue working if it rained? Also remember that the hot sun isn't always good. Are you protected against sunburns? Can you see your laptop screen due to glare? Will your equipment overheat in the sun?
From experience, I have overheated both an iPhone and and iPad due to extended periods in the sun. They work again after cooling down, but it stops your productivity dead in its tracks.
3 - Power
For me, power is the biggest campground working challenge. If you have an RV that is connected to power, you can plug in with ease. If there is no power at your campsite, it is important to plan ahead. Consider taking along a car charger or an AC power inverter that can be plugged into a vehicle 12 volt outlet. Charging is often slower with these methods, but it does work. Spare laptop batteries are valuable as long as you remember the charge them before you leave.
4 - Wireless connectivity
High-speed wireless connectivity is continuing to expand all across Canada. Check coverage maps ahead of time and call the campground office beforehand to confirm with park staff that their Smartphones work in the area.
My campground working kit is my standard mobile working companions: An Apple iPhone, a bluetooth headset and a 3G+ Mobile Internet Key connected to my laptop. The combination of devices provides full high speed connectivity and voice calling on the go. In fact, I was able to video conference while at the campsite using the Mobile Internet Key and Microsoft LiveMeeting.
5 - Dealing with distractions
Campgrounds can be full of distractions - loud neighbours, friends enjoying the day and the beauty of nature. For me, the two biggest distractions are simple: animals and mosquitoes.
Campground critters are fun, but they can be more distracting than a viral YouTube video. Ever had a squirrel scurry through your legs and over the picnic table while you are on a conference call? (true story) Keep your workspace clean and your attention focused on your work. If that doesn't work, take pictures of the fauna with your Smartphone and share them with your jealous colleagues.
Mosquitoes can be a big problems in some areas of Canada. While mosquito repellants can be effective, the constant buzzing can make working unbearable. If you are going to a known mosquito hotspot, consider working inside a bug shelter.
Try it and share your experience!
Working from a campground is a great experience. If you have never taken a working vacation before, please give it a try and let us know how it turned out.
