Ways to make field housing/camp feel more like home?
Ask A Biologist Monday 05/1/2023
Answers from Biologists:
Food food food and a fridge for cold beer after a hot day in the field.
Decorating your space even if you’re only going to be in the housing a few months.
Hanging up one or two pieces of art.
An extra cozy blanket and hot water bottle.
A tapestry.
I have all my friends sign my field pack so I can always have them with me in new places.
Always bring a fan (never know the A/C situation) and a lamp (for cozy lighting.
Supplies for your hobbies. Painting, crafting, whatever it may be bring it.
I always travel with a small library of my favorite books.
Playing your favorite music (as long as you’re not disturbing roommates or anyone nearby).
Organize fun dinner nights with your roommates.
String lights. Makes a room feel cozy.
Venture out into the area you’re living in your free time.
Make your own small travel box of kitchen essentials.
Organize your clothes so you don’t feel like you’re living out of a suitcase.
A rug, some framed art.
Put together a nice shower caddy with cozy bath towels.
A good pillow. Getting a good night’s sleep away from home can be hard but a good pillow helps.
Small creature comforts, like my hammock and a book.
A way to watch your favorite shows or movies (even downloading them sometimes).
My books, paints, and tea.
If you can spare the weight, actual dishware. Eating off a real plate makes a big difference in comfort.
Having a colorful blanket. I always brought a fun quilt for that homey feel.
Find a local cafe/pub and make it a point to start late or kick off early once a a week for some R&R.
Have friends/family send care packages. Makes remote supply drops more exciting.
Maintaining some sort of routine, like morning workouts.
Find a time to get away for video calls to loved ones.
Real sheets and blanket instead of a sleeping bag on a bare matress.
Board games to play with coworkers.
Hot water in a Nalgene to cuddle with in your sleeping bag.
Photos/postcards of home to decorate with.
A good mug and blanket for comfort.
A few real pictures in frames and my own pillow and bedding.
Slippers.
Ditch the sleeping bag for real blankets.
Make your bed cozy with lots of pillows and blankets.
Get to know the locals.
Don’t be afraid to adventure around on your own.
