Montana’s wide-open spaces and breathtaking landscapes make it the perfect place for a camping trip. Whether you’re craving a quick escape into nature or just found some free time, planning a last-minute camping trip can be exciting and stress-free with the right approach.
Here are seven practical tips to help you get out the door and into the wild without overcomplicating your trip.
1. Choose a Campsite That Doesn’t Require Reservations
If you’re planning a last-minute camping trip, finding an available campsite can be tricky. Many popular campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Look for first-come, first-served campgrounds, which don’t require reservations. Montana has plenty of these options, including national forests, state parks, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. Some dispersed camping areas allow you to set up camp without needing a designated site, as long as you follow Leave No Trace principles.
Before heading out, check local regulations to make sure camping is allowed in your chosen area.
2. Pack the Essentials First
When time is limited, focus on the must-have camping essentials first. These include:
- Tent or shelter – Make sure it’s easy to set up and has all its parts.
- Sleeping bag and pad – Choose gear suited for the weather conditions.
- Food and water – Pack non-perishable snacks, quick meals, and plenty of water.
- Clothing layers – Montana’s weather can change quickly, so bring warm layers and rain gear.
- Lighting – Headlamps or flashlights with extra batteries are a must.
- First aid kit – A basic kit with bandages, pain relievers, and antiseptic is important.
If you’re short on gear, consider camping gear rentals from local outfitters like BBT Rentals, which offer everything from tents to cooking supplies. Renting is a great option for last-minute trips, as it saves time and ensures you have quality equipment.
3. Keep Your Meals Simple
When you’re heading out on short notice, don’t overthink your meals. Stick to easy-to-make camping food that requires minimal preparation and cleanup.
Good last-minute meal ideas include:
- Pre-made sandwiches or wraps
- Canned soups or stews
- Instant oatmeal or granola bars for breakfast
- Hot dogs or foil packet meals for dinner
If you don’t have a camping stove, a small propane burner or even a fire pit (if allowed) can work for quick meals. Renting a camping stove from BBT Rentals can also save you the hassle of packing bulky gear.
4. Check the Weather and Be Prepared
Montana’s weather is unpredictable, so check the forecast before you leave. Even if the forecast looks good, be prepared for sudden changes.
Pack extra layers, rain gear, and a warm hat and gloves, even if it’s summer. Nights in Montana can be chilly, especially in the mountains. If you’re renting camping gear, make sure to choose a sleeping bag rated for the expected temperatures.
5. Bring a Map or Offline Navigation
Cell service can be spotty in many parts of Montana, so don’t rely solely on your phone for directions. Download offline maps or bring a printed map of the area you’re heading to. A compass can also be useful, especially if you plan on hiking away from camp.
If you’re camping in a remote location, a GPS device can be a helpful backup. National forests and public lands often have roads and trails that aren’t well-marked, so knowing how to navigate without relying on internet access is essential. Before setting out, familiarize yourself with the area by reviewing trail maps and noting key landmarks to help you stay on course.
6. Pack Light but Smart
When planning a last-minute camping trip, it’s easy to overpack. Instead of bringing everything “just in case,” focus on multi-use items that save space and weight.
Some smart packing tips:
- A lightweight backpacking stove instead of a full-sized grill
- A sleeping bag rental instead of carrying extra blankets
- A headlamp instead of multiple lanterns
- A multi-tool instead of a full tool kit
If you need extra gear but don’t want to haul everything from home, BBT Rentals offers camping gear rentals so you can grab what you need without overloading your car.
7. Follow Leave No Trace Principles
Even if you’re camping last-minute, it’s important to respect nature and leave no trace. This means:
- Packing out all trash and food waste
- Using designated fire rings or a camp stove instead of building new fire pits
- Keeping noise levels down to respect other campers and wildlife
- Staying on marked trails and avoiding trampling fragile vegetation
Montana’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws, so doing your part to protect it ensures that future campers can enjoy the same experience.
Bonus Tip: Rent Gear to Save Time
One of the best ways to make a last-minute camping trip stress-free is to rent your gear instead of rushing to buy or pack everything. Renting allows you to travel light, skip the hassle of last-minute shopping, and ensure you have high-quality, well-maintained equipment ready to go.
BBT Rentals in Montana offers camping gear rentals, including tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and more. Renting is a great option if:
- You don’t own camping gear.
- You want to avoid packing bulky items.
- You’re flying into Montana and need equipment.
- You’re trying out camping for the first time and aren’t ready to invest in gear.
By renting what you need, you can focus on enjoying your trip rather than scrambling to gather gear at the last minute. Plus, you won’t have to worry about cleaning and storing equipment when you return home—just drop it off and let BBT Rentals handle the rest.
Final Thoughts
A last-minute camping trip doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, you can hit the road quickly and enjoy Montana’s incredible outdoor spaces without overcomplicating your plans.
By choosing a first-come, first-served campsite, packing essentials, renting camping gear, and keeping meals simple, you can spend less time preparing and more time enjoying the great outdoors.
Whether you’re heading into the mountains or setting up at a nearby campground, BBT Rentals has the camping gear rentals you need to make your trip easy and enjoyable.
So grab your gear, pick a spot, and enjoy your last-minute camping adventure in Montana!