A recent trend has emerged where people set up camp outside of retail stores, dedicating hours, and sometimes even days, to queue up and wait in front of stores in order to be the first to secure the latest technology or merchandise.
Tech lovers are known as techies and are avid fans of technology. These people love to be the first to have the latest gadgets and gear and are willing to wait in long lines for them.
Companies hire people to stand in line and create a line camp culture where people talk with each other and get to know each other through their shared interest in the product. They also keep people orderly and manage the line so that everyone has an equal chance at getting the product.
Line campers typically stay in line for 8–12 hours depending on how many devices are being released. The general rule of thumb is one person per sleeping bag, although this can vary depending on how many people want the product.
Pick a camp spot near a store
While this may seem counterintuitive, camping near a store will save you a lot of stress and worry. You will know that if something happens, you are close to a place to get what you need.
Camping near a store also means you will have easy access to refreshments. You can spend your time in the camp relaxing instead of going out to get drinks and snacks.
Plus, if your campmates run low on anything, you can easily go to the store to get more. You will not have to spend the rest of your trip rushing to find supplies or replacements.
Camping near a grocery store is also helpful if you plan on cooking at your campsite. Having access to fresh food and drinks is important for staying hydrated and nourished.
Bring supplies
While camping outside a store may seem simple, you will need to be prepared with supplies. The first thing is to make sure you have a tent.
Depending on the store you’re camping outside of, you may need more supplies. If it’s a food chain like McDonald’s or Chipotle, you will need food for the duration you camp out.
If it’s an electronics store like Best Buy or AT&T, you will need a way to keep yourself entertained. The same goes for Sephora or any makeup store—you will need your makeup!
General stores like Target or Walmart do not require special camping materials aside from food and water. Of course, if you are passionate about what is being sold inside the store, then bringing some of your own may help you stay comfortable.
Regardless of what store you camp outside of, make sure to bring enough supplies for the duration of your camp out.
Pack a backpack with supplies
In case you need to make a quick getaway, it’s a good idea to pack a backpack with basic necessities. Include things like water, food, a first aid kit, and a flashlight in your pack.
Water is important to have as you may need to hydrate quickly. Water bottles are great to have in your pack!
A bag with these things is also great to have if you need to run away or relocate due to the protests or police activity. It is also helpful if you decide to camp outside the store temporarily.
Protest bags are sold online and in stores, so if you are not very crafty, purchase one pre-made. They generally cost around $30-$50 depending on the size and quality of the bag.
Another tip: keep your bag lightweight so that you are comfortable carrying it for several hours. Also make sure to keep it hidden so that nobody steals your supplies.
Bring a tent
If you are planning on camping outside of a store for release day, you should bring a tent to sleep in. This way, you do not have to worry about where you are going to sleep, and can just focus on the game!
Tents can be bought at any store that sells outdoor recreation gear, or online. There are many websites that sell tents at affordable prices, and if you look hard enough you will find one at your budget.
Sleeping bags are also recommended as it gets cold at night! A thermal sleeping bag will keep you warm enough as it is winter in most countries when new games come out.
If you are not too familiar with how to set up a tent or what materials are needed, there are plenty of videos on YouTube that can help you! Searching for “how to set up a (insert tent brand here) tent” will get you started.
Have money ready for when the store opens
Once you have your camp set up, it’s time to get ready for the next day. Make sure you have everything you need, and rest up for the big day!
On the night before the store opening, make sure to go to the store and pick up your tent peg replacements, if needed. You do not want to have to dig holes in the ground in the middle of the night!
Also, make sure to have enough money for what you are trying to get from the store. You do not want to be sleeping outside of the store and not get what you wanted because you did not have enough money!
Hopefully your camping trip was a success and you were able to get what you wanted from the new Nike Store.
Stay calm and peaceful
While camping outside a store may be stressful, it is important to stay calm and peaceful. People can be very judgmental, and we do not want to add any more stress than necessary.
Camping can be very relaxing and therapeutic. Take this time to practice your peacefulness and mindfulness while you set up your camp.
By being in a camper or RV, you also have shelter should it rain. This is another way to keep yourself relaxed and calm. You are already prepared for the weather!
Practice meditation if you are familiar with it, or just take some time to be quiet and listen to the sounds around you. You are in nature, so what better place to be than on top of a mountain meditating?
Keep camp clean: try not to leave any evidence that you were there after you leave the store.
Inform the security of your presence
While camping in general is a peaceful activity, it is also important to be aware of your surroundings. The same goes for camping outside of a store for the release of a new phone or gadget.
Security personnel at stores are usually very busy and have a lot to monitor. Adding someone camping outside of the store may not be top on their list of things to check until they hear some complaints.
If you decide to camp outside of the store, let security know that you are there and that you will be quiet. If possible, share your enthusiasm for the new device with them so they do not think you are there to cause trouble.
Also, keep any noise down to a minimum until the device is released.
Follow all rules and regulations
While camping in general requires you to follow rules and regulations, the same is true for camping outside of a store. Many stores have policies against camping on their property, so be sure to do some research before settling down for the night.
Some businesses may even have police patrolling their property or have security officers that will ask you to leave. Being arrested for trespassing is no joke, so be sure to be aware and avoid this situation.
General rules include no littering, no trespassing, and be respectful of the environment around you. These are important when trying to camp outside of a store because you are potentially damaging their business by being there.
Don’t give other shoppers a reason to not go into the store because of you.
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Olivia is the Editor in Chief of Laienhaft – a website dedicated to all things outdoor and camping. If you’re looking for the best tent to take on your next camping trip, or need some advice on how to get started with recreational camping, Olivia has you covered.
