Camp tips: Essential Camping Tips For Beginners – Camping in the Forest

Essential Camping Tips For Beginners – Camping in the Forest

We’ve gathered all of our resources, asked our experts and scoured our archives to bring you the most epic list of camping tips on the internet. Whether you’re new to camping and haven’t got a clue where to start, or a seasoned camper looking to improve your set up, this is a must-read.

In this guide:

• General camping tips
• Cooking and food tips
• Tent tips
• Sleeping tips
• Clothing tips

1. Always plan for bad weather

The weather in the UK is notoriously unpredictable. We recommend packing:

• Plenty of warm layers
• A warm hat
• Waterproof clothing
• Sun protection
• Insect repellent

2. Check the weather forecast

Despite it not always being accurate, checking the weather forecast will give you a good idea of what to prepare for.

3. Plan your activities in advance

You can view our things to do for the area you’re camping in before leaving home. These suggestions are perfect for planning your days on and off the campsite before you arrive. From visiting top UK attractions to enjoying the forest on these walking and cycling trails, there’s so much to do.

4. There’s nothing wrong with being over-prepared

Sure, packing light is handy. However, you won’t know what you really need until you’ve been camping a few times. Don’t listen to anyone that tells you that you’ve packed too much. It’s fine to be prepared for all situations until you can put together your own, personalised list of essentials to pack.

5. Look out for camping sales

Out of season sales are a great way to save money on camping kit and accessories. Look out for these over the low season to see if you can bag some bargains. Remember to do your research before investing to make sure you’re paying the best price available.

6. Take a first aid kit

Fingers crossed you won’t need to use it, but having the basics to clean and bandage a wound will be invaluable if you or someone you’re with does have an accident. If you’re camping with a dog, taking a separate first aid kit is a great idea.

7. Use a packing list before setting off

There are endless camping packing lists available online. You can find our expert-led list of camping essentials here to get you started.

8. Don’t pitch up under a tree

Although it can make for a great photo opportunity, pitching up under a tree can pose a few issues. Trees in high wind can become a real hazard with falling branches very likely to cause damage to your unit. It’s also really annoying having to clean tree sap off or bird mess off of your tent.

9. Don’t forget about lighting!

Consider whether you’d prefer a hand-held torch or a headlight for trips to the facilities after dark. Check if there’s a convenient place in your unit to hang a lantern, if not you may need to get a free-standing light.

10. Pack a portable charger

You’ll most likely run out of battery on your phone during your trip and it’d be a shame not to be able to snap your memorable moments. Many campsites offer electric pitches and phone charging facilities but having a portable option while you’re away from the campsite can be useful.

11. Prioritise entertainment

Books, board games, cards and outdoor games are all options for staying entertained on the campsite. For some outdoor, camping friendly ideas, view our camping game ideas for kids and adults.

12. Leave your tech at home

Signal can be variable in rural camping locations so online streaming can be hit and miss. Taking a phone for accessing online maps, contacting people and taking pictures is fine but leave the rest of the tech (and the stress) at home.

13. Pack a small table and some chairs

You’ll miss basic items of furniture when you’re camping. Having a chair and table, a place to set your tea down and enjoy your meals is a great way to make your unit feel a little more like home.

14. Give kids something to do while you pitch up

Arriving on your chosen campsite is an exciting moment. However, the mood can sometimes be ruined with kid’s boredom while adults are busy setting up the camping area. Give older kids helpful jobs to do and plan fun activities younger kids can do without assistance while you’re busy setting up.

15. Make use of your membership

As a Camping and Caravanning Club member, you’ll have access to a whole host of benefits. Exclusive offers throughout the year, retail discounts and a dedicated team of technical experts to offer support are just a few of the perks that you get with your annual fee. If you’re new to camping, find out about joining the club here.

16. Make your set up twinkle with fairy lights

Fairy lights make great, affordable lighting inside your unit. They’ll also help to create a lovely, relaxing atmosphere.

17. Take your own toilet paper

If you’re staying on a campsite that doesn’t guarantee toilet paper, make sure you take your own. You can keep it in a reusable sealable bag to save on space if needed. Many campers take anti-bacterial wipes and wet wipes so they’re always prepared for the facilities block.

18. Reuse your plastic bags

Camping is a great way of reusing any plastic bags you have. Use them for waterproofing items, storing dirty clothes, carrying items from the campsite shop and much more. Just remember to reuse them as many times as you can!

19. Pack your car in an order

Put your tent and any other essentials you may need to grab while you’re pitching up in the car last. This means they’ll be the first things you can grab when you arrive on your chosen campsite.

20. Pack earplugs

This is a great tip, just in case you find yourself with noisy neighbours or unused to the sounds of the great outdoors while you’re trying to sleep. Most campsites will have rules around noise levels after a certain time of night. Pack a pair of earplugs and you’ll always be able to sleep soundly.

21. Check your campsites rules

Most campsites will have a set of guidelines you’ll be required to follow. This is for the safety and comfort of everyone on the campsite. You can read our campsite rules here.

22. Don’t leave valuables unattended

Unfortunately, there are opportunistic people around, and you’ll need to be vigilant with your valuables. Use your common sense and don’t leave things unattended. If you’re leaving the campsite for the day, take any valuables with you and always remember to lock up your bikes.

 
23. No two campsites are the same

It’s great if you find a favourite site to visit regularly but do explore other campsites to get a feel of the different options available.

24. First timer? Borrow some kit to get you started

Your first time camping is all about getting a feel for the great outdoors and experiencing the freedom it brings. To save on initial outlay, try to borrow kit from friends or family. You can also get many second-hand items in a great condition online.

25. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

When you’re on your campsite, there’s bound to be something you have questions about. Don’t be afraid to ask site staff or fellow campers for help. The camping community’s full of friendly faces and everyone remembers what it’s like starting out.

26. Respect neighbours privacy

Feel free to say good morning to your neighbours but know when to keep to yourself. Some campers will be up for socialising but many will keep to themselves, preferring to relax on their pitch in private.

27. Prepare for camping with your dog

There are certain things you’ll need to pack and jobs you’ll need to do before you leave home if you’re taking your four-legged friend camping. View our dog-friendly holiday tips here.

28. Choose somewhere close to home for your first camping trip

There’s always a chance that you’ll forget something, experience terrible weather or even decide you want to go home early on your first trip. Choosing a campsite not too far away from home allows you to make a quick return or go back to pick something up that you’ve forgotten.

29. Take wet wipes

Drink spills, mud and messy kids can all be resolved with the help of a wet wipe. Keeping your camping area clean is a vital part of being able to enjoy your camping trip. Just make sure you look out for biodegradable options.

30. Never cook inside your tent

Cooking inside your tent, under an awning or right next to your tent poses an extreme fire risk. You should always cook in an open space, clear of any potential obstructions or fire risks. Burning any type of fuel in a non-ventilated space means you’re also at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Take the safe route and brave cooking outside no matter what the weathers doing.

31. Collect and dispose of any food waste responsibly

Food waste and packaging can get blown around by the wind, littering the campsite and causing unnecessary damage to the environment. To prevent harm to wildlife and unhappy neighbours, dispose of any rubbish in the campsite bins.

32. Plan your meals before you go

Cooking on a campsite is much easier when you know exactly what you’re making and have all of the ingredients you need. Check out our camping recipes for some inspiration.

33. Set up a hand washing area

If you’re camping in a tent, it’s a good idea to set up a hand washing station next to your cooking area so you don’t have to walk back and forth to the facilities block. Hand sanitizer is handy to have around but try not to use it in place of soap and water!

34. Pack plenty of snacks

Whipping up a quick bite to eat on a campsite can take longer than it would in your home, so make sure you have plenty of easy to grab snacks around to tide you over.

35. Take reusable water bottles

Avoid plastic waste by taking a reusable bottle for each person you’re camping with. You can fill your bottle up on the campsite and take it with you when you go out for the day. Stainless steel bottles are great at keeping drinks hot or cold all day.

36. Use your old tea towels

Got a tea towel that’s past its best at home? Use that for your camping trip. Anything you take camping with you is bound to get a little worn so don’t take new versions of something you already have.

37. Take a few meal options that don’t need cooking

Bad weather, a broken camping stove or exhaustion after a long day away from the campsite are all reasons you may not want to cook at the end of the day. Pack a few options that need no or minimal cooking so you can give yourself a break.

38. Prep food before you leave

You can chop vegetables, pre-mix pancake batter and crack eggs before you leave home to save you a bit of time on the campsite.

39. Test your camping stove before each trip

It’s always a good idea to check your cooking equipment’s in working order before leaving home to avoid any setbacks once you arrive on your campsite. View our easy camping stove meals for some inspiration.

40. Take a large water container

Limit the number of times you have to walk to and from the water tap by keeping a large container of water on your pitch. This is great for refilling your water bottles, washing your hands and for using when cooking.

41. Don’t forget the tea bags

Tea bags are one of the most common items to be forgotten, but one of the most valued by many campers.

42. You can buy reusable food storage

Ziploc bags may be convenient, but single-use plastic isn’t great for the environment or the wildlife around our campsites. You can buy reusable silicone food storage bags, food containers and even beeswax food wraps that you can use time and time again.

43. Research local places to eat

If you’re camping for just a few days, investing in a camping stove may not be worth the cost when there are some fantastic local places to grab a bite to eat. Take a look at the best pubs and breweries in the New Forest as an example.

44. Night-time in the UK is colder than you think

Even in the peak of summer, the temperature in the UK can really drop at night. You’ll only sleep well if you’re warm enough so go prepared for a cold night, with the option to remove layers.

45. Get a good ground mat

The first thing to consider is what you’ll be sleeping on. The ground will absorb all of your heat given a chance, so make sure you put the right gear between you and it. This guide to sleeping mats should tell you everything you need to know.

46. If you’re going to spend money on one item, let it be your sleeping bag

Your sleeping bag is going to be your main insulation while you sleep, so investing in something comfortable, lightweight and long-lasting is worth the money. This guide to sleeping bags should give you a few pointers.

47. Take a comfy pillow

You can buy camping pillows, but they’re not necessarily needed. If you’re backpacking or low on space, camping pillows can pack down to save on weight and room. Otherwise, any comfy pillow you like will do the job.

48. Pack extra blankets

Blankets can be used as an additional insulation layer on the ground, a cosy extra in your sleeping bag or for putting across your lap on a colder evening. It’s better to have another layer you can use than need one and not have it.

49. Think about your tent flooring

You don’t need to add any additional flooring to your tent, but it is an easy way of ramping up the comfort factor. Foam floor pads, spare carpet and fluffy blankets are great for insulation; they can also protect your tent flooring from wear and tear.

50. Understand heat loss and how to prevent it

If you’re unfamiliar with the mechanisms behind heat loss, take a look at this explanation of the methods of heat loss, which very quickly explains how we lose heat to our surroundings. Once you understand how your body temperature drops, you’ll know how to stay warmer.

51. Don’t sleep with your face inside your sleeping bag

If you sleep with your mouth inside your sleeping bag, the water vapour in your breath will make the inside of your sleeping bag damp which will make you colder and uncomfortable.

52. Pack a hot water bottle

If you’re especially susceptible to cold weather and camping with the means to heat up water, a hot water bottle can be a great option for tucking inside your sleeping bag. Just remember that if you get so hot that you start to sweat, you may wake up colder later in the night.

53. Buy a bigger tent than you think you’ll need

The size of a tent is described by the maximum number of people that can sleep inside it. A two-berth tent, for example, is designed to fit two adults. Although this is great as a rough guide, you’ll probably want some extra space to store your gear and move around inside your tent. We recommend buying a tent which is at least one size up from the amount of people sleeping in it.

Camping shows are a great way to get a feel of different tent sizes and shapes. Find out about upcoming camping shows here.

54. Arrive during daylight hours

Pitching a tent in the dark isn’t an enjoyable experience, especially if it’s one of your first times. Plan to arrive during daylight hours and remember that the sun sets much earlier in the winter months.

55. Double-check the ground you’re pitching on

Look at the ground where you’re about to pitch your tent. It should be mostly even, so you don’t find yourself on a slope. Check there are no rocks, stones or rubbish which can impact on comfort and damage your groundsheet.

56. Pack some microfiber cloths

Taking up little room in the car, microfiber cloths will come in handy countless times during your camping trip. Whether it’s a drink spillage, rainy weather, or excess condensation, you’ll be thankful you have a quick-drying cloth to use.

57. Always use a mallet for your tent pegs

Using your foot to drive tent pegs into the ground is a recipe for disaster. You’re very likely to bend the pegs if you’ve got hiking boots on, rendering them useless. If you haven’t got solid shoes on, you’re more likely to cause yourself a nasty foot injury. If you’ve forgotten your mallet, ask to borrow someone else’s or find a rock to use instead.

58. Make sure you don’t leave too much of your tent peg sticking out

This can help prevent you from tripping over them, which is easily done. You can also get reflective guy ropes which are helpful when coming back to your tent after a late trip to the facilities block.

59. Consider a no-shoe rule inside

Many campers will have a rule that shoes aren’t allowed inside the tent at all. This is a great way of keeping the interior of the tent clean and dry in all weathers. Always make sure muddy or wet shoes are left at the entrance of your tent; you can always pack a pair of comfy slippers to wear inside.

60. Check your tent before you camp

If it’s your first time pitching a tent, or your tent has been in storage for a while, it’s a good idea to get it out and put it up in the garden before you leave. Check you’re comfortable with putting it together and look out for any damage or wear. You can even practice putting all of your kit inside to check it fits how you’d like. Doing a trial run at home is a great way to build your confidence if you’re a first-timer and it should help to ensure pitching up on the campsite goes smoothly.

61. Make sure you have enough room in your tent to store your gear

If you’ve bought a tent big enough for you and your gear this shouldn’t be a problem (see point 49). During your trial run at home, you can double-check that your gear fits inside your tent comfortably.

62. Zip your doors before you pitch

You’ll want to pitch your tent with enough tension to protect it from high winds. If you do that with your tent doors open, you may struggle to zip them up.

63. Pack some duct tape

You can use duct tape to mend a tear in your tent, seal unused food bags, repair your glasses, cover a blister, fix a leaking water bottle and much more. The uses are endless!

64. Read our guide to buying a tent

Find out about the best tent materials and what to look out for in our tent buying guide.

65. Dry your tent out before storing

Packing your tent away on the campsite is okay if it’s wet but make sure you dry it out as soon as you get home. Storing a wet tent can lead to mould and a much shorter lifespan than the manufacturer intended. If the weathers dry, you can put your tent up in the garden to dry it out. If you need to dry it indoors, laying it on a flat surface and turning every few hours should do the job.

66. Check any tent peg requirements

Some campsites will require different types of tent pegs due to ground conditions. You’ll usually be notified of this prior to arriving on your campsite of choice. Some of the varieties of tent pegs to be aware of are rock pegs, snow pegs and stake pegs which are usually a good all-rounder. Many campers will build up a supply of pegs and take a variety along with them just in case spares are needed. For more information on the varieties, read our guide to tent pegs.

67. Take photos as you unpack your tent

Sometimes the hardest part of taking down a tent is figuring out how it fits back inside the bag. Taking pictures of the tent as you take it out can help you figure out how to get it back in.

68. Pack dry spares

Dry campers are happy campers! Pack at least one set of spare clothes in case the ones you’re wearing get wet. Do your research on materials which retain heat and dry quickly, investing in a few good items to see you through will make your camping trip much more comfortable.

69. Make sure your layers are loose

The best way to stay warm is to layer up your clothing, but if your layers are tight, you’ll slow your circulation and end up with cold limbs.

70. Stay on top of your temperature

Don’t wait until your fingers are numb to try and get warm. As soon as you start to feel cold, figure out why and fix it. It’s much harder to get warm when you’re really cold than it is to maintain a constant level of comfort.

71. Pack an umbrella

You may not want to wear your waterproofs when you’re spending the day exploring a new city or town. Pack a compact umbrella so you can be prepared for Britain’s rainy weather.

72. Store your clothes in waterproof containers

This follows on from the point above; make sure your clothes are stored in a waterproof box or bag. This tip ensures you’ll always have a dry set of clothes.

73. Slip-on shoes

Pack a pair of shoes you can slip on and off quickly for trips to the facility block and wandering around the campsite. It’ll save you a lot of time and effort during your trip.

74. Keep your clothes in your sleeping bag

If you’re camping during cold weather, getting out of your sleeping bag can be a struggle. Having your clothes for the day ahead in your sleeping bag overnight means they’ll be warm in the morning. View all of our cold weather camping tips here.

Made it to the end? Don’t stop here; we have plenty more camping information, camping recipes and family camping inspiration for you to get stuck in to.

Alternatively, check out our camping locations to start planning your next trip away.

25 of The Most Useful Camping Tips and Hacks for 2021

Camping is a fantastic way to calm the mind, connect with nature, and have an adventure. But it’s not easy to make it perfect on your first try. We have had years of trial and error camping on every continent (including Antarctica) and have put together our best camping tips to help make the great outdoors more comfortable and fun.

In this guide, we are going to cover camping essentials, meal planning, how to set up your camp, and much more. So get ready to plan your next camping trip with our help.

The Best Camping Tips

Table of Contents

Camping is by far one of the best ways to experience nature and the outdoors but it can be intimidating, especially for beginners. We have done a lot of camping over the years that has allowed us to amass a wealth of knowledge from car camping to backcountry camping. So today, we are going to share all our camping tips and tricks that will make your next camping trip enjoyable.

• If you are new to tent camping, you’ll want to check out our camping gear list to see what you should bring to make the most of your camping trips.

Planning Your Camping Trip

The best camping trips start with good planning. It is not like you can just jump in your car and go. You have to take weather and time of year into consideration. Plus, you will probably have to book a campground well beforehand unless you plan on backcountry camping. Everything you do to plan your trip before hitting the road will make the camping experience easier and less stressful. So let’s get started.

1. What kind of camper are you?

Our mammoth camping trip through Mongolia during the Mongol Rally

We like to break camping down into different types of styles. Some people prefer roughing it as much as they can and others prefer a bit of comfort on their camping trip. By determining what type of camping experience you want to have, you will be able to plan the perfect trip.

• Tent Camping: By far the most popular as it usually involves camping in a tent at a campsite or a national park where they have facilities like bathrooms and water.
• Car Camping: This is popular in North America as it lets you drive you car into the campsite and the set up is really easy. Sometimes you camp in a tent on the gound, sometimes on top of your car, and the more adventurous just sleep with a blow up mattress in the back of their SUV.
• Trailer or Camper: Campervan travel has become increasingly popular and it involves either towing a camper or actually driving a campervan where all the amenities are inside.
• Backcountry Camping: This for the hardcore campers and hikers out there. This is where you hike in, carry all of your gear, food, and water (or a water purifyer to purify water from lakes) and you are camping with no facilities. This is the type of camping you usually do when you have a bit of experience.

2. Picking a Campground

When it comes to choosing a campground it is always recommended to do it in advance. When picking your campground, there are a few things you should consider when choosing one that is right for you:

• What is the best time of year to visit? High season or low season?
• What amenities are available? For example are there washrooms, do they have running water, do they have fire pits or do you need to pack a camp stove, do you need a picnic table?
• What regulations does the campground have? For instance, is there a no fire policy, are there any closures or if you have a dog, are pets allowed?.
• How far ahead of time do you need to book to get the campsite you want?

3. Choosing the Best Campsite

Regardless of whether you are camping in a National Park or designated campground, choosing a good campsite can make the difference between a great camping experience and a mediocre one. It is always a good idea to look for a site that has these features:

• A great view or close to the water. These are usually away from other campsites and offer a bit more privacy.
• Located further away from the bathrooms. If your campground is equipped with washrooms you will want to pick a site that is a good distance away, especially if you go to bed early or are a light sleeper.
• When camping in the summer, look for a site that has some shade by trees, you’ll thank us when the morning sun hits and makes your tent an oven.

4. Packing the right Camping Gear

Camping gear is always a very personal choice and one that changes depending on comfort level and budget. Here are some suggestions for the camping essentials including your tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and more.

Tent

Setting up your tent when camping

Your tent is the most important piece of camping gear you will need and it is worth spending money here if you want something that is going to last. We recommend a 3 season tent, as most of you will not be doing winter camping.

We own a three-person tent for the two of us. We find it is good to go up one size from what you need unless you are doing serious backcountry hiking and need to keep your weight down.

• If you are car camping, you can choose any size you want! A larger tent that you can stand up in and move freely in is ideal.
• If you are hiking and carrying all your gear, you’ll want to go as light and small as possible.

If you already have a tent, make sure to check the rain fly for leaks and waterproof the seams. You can buy sealant for zippers and you should have a tent repair kit and patches for any leaks or tears.

Tent Suggestions

• MSR Mutha-Hubba 3 Person Tent
• Big Agnes Copper Spur Line
• Car Camping: Big Agnes Big House

Sleeping Bag

A good sleeping bag is a must

Next on the list of importance is your sleeping bag. This is another place you don’t want to skimp on when it comes to quality, especially if you want to stay warm.. There are 2 types of insulation that are used in sleeping bags; down and synthetic. Basically, down-filled sleeping bags have a better weight to insulation ratio than synthetic ones. This means, if weight is a real concern for you then down is the way to go. If you are just doing some weekend camping synthetic will definitely save you some money.

Sleeping Bag Suggestions

• Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass
• Sierra Designs Night Cap
• Big Agnes Sidewinder

Sleeping Pad

Camping mats in Kyrgystan

A good sleeping pad can mean the difference between a good night’s sleep and a bad one. A sleeping pad goes between you and the ground and is there to provide cushion and insulation. These are measured in R-Values which tell you the effectiveness of comfort and warmth. We recommend something between 2.5 and 3.5 depending on how much weight you want to carry and how much room you have in your pack.

We use an inflatable sleeping pad from Thermarest. It keeps us warm and comfortable no matter what the temperature outside.

There is a lot more gear you should consider for your next camping trip and in order to make sure you don’t miss anything check out The Ultimate Camping Checklist before you hit the road. We cover everything from what to pack in your first aid kit, what clothes to pack, cooking essentials, and much more.

Outdoor Living and Cover

You’ll also need to be prepared for rain and weather. Temperatures can dip in the middle of the night, so you’ll need to layer up, and have waterproof gear. We always pack a large tarp when car camping to protect from rain should there be a downpour. Fasten it to the trees around you and you can sit under it and enjoy the sound of pitter-patter raindrops. You don’t want to be stuck in a tiny tent all night if the rain comes.

Headlamp and Lanterns

Camping at night

When sleeping under the stars, it’s a lot darker than in the city and you are going to want more than just the light on your smartphone. A camping lantern is a great thing to bring along whenever you go camping. Sure you’ll have the light of the campfire, but what if you want to play a game of cards or read a book, you’ll definitely want some light.

A headlamp is a must when camping. It is a great way to free up your hands so you can clean up, pack up, or pile some more wood onto the fire.

Practice Camp Set Up at Home

Practice setting up your tent at home

There is no worse feeling than getting to a campsite and trying to figure out how all your things work. You want to take the stress out of camping and a good way to do that is by practicing how you are going to set up camp at home. It may sound strange, but if this is your first time camping or you haven’t done it in a while, this will remind you of all those little things you may have forgotten about.

5. Practice Setting Up Your Tent

Too many people get to the campsite and set up their tents for the first time. It can be a frustrating experience and it can really set a negative tone for the weekend. So do yourself a favor and set up your tent a few times before your trip.

After you’ve set it up, get inside and see how it fits. What can you do to make things more comfortable, where are you going to put your packs and gear when inside? Where will you keep your flashlight so it is handy for those middle-of-the-night bathroom runs? Speaking of bathroom runs, don’t forget about toilet paper. What are you going to pack away and what are you going to keep at your fingertips in the middle of the night. The more you are in your tent, the more ideas will come to mind.

6. Practice using your Camp Stove

Another item you are going to want to make sure you know how to use ahead of time is your camp stove. It is not a lot of fun when you want to boil water or eat and you have no idea how to regulate or light your camp stove. This is the camp stove we use.

Follow the instructions that come with it and practice cooking some food and boiling water so that you are not trying to figure that out when you have just come off the trail and are hungry. This is a good car camping or comfort camping stove. See our full camping checklist for cooking and camping utensils.

7. Check Your Headlamp and lantern Batteries

There is nothing worse than getting to the campsite and realizing the batteries in your headlamp or lantern are dead. We always make sure to check these before we go on a camping trip. We also just headlamps that are re-chargeable, so if they do run out we can plug them into a power brick and recharge them on the go.

Make sure to test them at night, so you can see just how run down the batteries are. This is a good headlamp for camping.

8. Setting Up Your Camp Site

Tarps, flies and Vestibules are your friend

At the campsite, be sure to select level ground and look for any rocks, sticks, or roots that will ruin your sleep. Choose a site that has a good tree cover that you can use to tie your tarps and hang any gear. We use a pegless clothesline to dry bathing suits and towels.

We always use our fly on our tent and use it as a vestibule to store our packs. We don’t normally keep our packs in the tent. Instead, we keep them just outside the zipper doors under the vestibule. That said, be sure to have a tarp or footprint under the tent as well. It can get a bit warmer, but we just keep the doors of the fly open to allow air through.

9. Prepare and Plan Your Meals

YOu can eat well when camping

When we first started camping, we didn’t think about meals. We stopped a the store on the way and grabbed some hot dogs and marshmallows thinking we’d just cook over the campfire. This was a bad idea. As we learned to prepare food ahead of time, we found that we could eat very well while camping. There are many prepared meals that you can buy for camping these days from pre-made chicken gumbo to vegetable lasagna.

You can easily pick up gourmet meals at REI (in the US) or MEC stores (in Canada.) Or you can prepare your own meals and portion them out in ziplock bags or plastic bins. We love making stews or chilis when camping. It’s easy to heat up and clean up afterward.

Don’t forget about breakfast. Oatmeal is a great option and we always have a French Press to make delicious coffee. Just add water!

Eggs when camping – Want eggs instead of oatmeal or cereal in the morning? Pre crack your eggs ahead of time and put them in a water bottle. That way you don’t have to deal with messy shells at the campsite. Personally, we don’t cook over the campfire and prefer to use that for S’mores and hot dogs. We use a multi-fuel camp stove and instead make a fire for roasting marshmallows.

10. Make a Kitchen and Sitting area

Picnic Tables aren’t always readily available

You are not going to want to sit in your tent all night, so you need to make sure you have all the comforts to spend a few hours outside. We made the mistake while camping our way through Spain of not bringing camp chairs and we were always sitting on the ground. Pack foldable camp chairs. Don’t solely rely on the picnic tables provided at most campsites. Besides, when you are ready to sit around the campfire, you can’t take the table over.

Pro Tip: Be sure to string a tarp as soon as you get to camp as well. It will protect from rain and offer some shade from the sun. We usually string our tarp up over our eating area.

11. Dealing with Bugs

Dave loves his bug jacket

Many people pack a screened gazebo for sitting in. If you are car camping, go for it. You can set it up around the picnic table and have a place to eat and relax free from bugs. If you are camping in places with mosquitoes and black flies, we highly recommend bug jackets. It is also a good idea to make sure you have bug spray and after bite in your first aid kit to help mitigate the bugs but also alleviate the itching and swelling when you do get bit.

Pro Tip: never leave your tent zipper open. Close it immediately when exiting or entering, it can fill up quickly with bugs.

12. Campfire Tips

Our favorite part of camping is making a campfire. But a lot of people don’t know how to make one in this day and age. Before you go camping, learn to make a good campfire.

1. Lighters – Be sure to pack several ways to start a fire. Matches can get wet and lighters can be finicky, so bring a few backup options of both.
2. Firewood – Make sure you buy dry wood. We’ve had fires smolder and fizzle because the wood was damp or waterlogged. When purchasing firewood, make sure it’s nice and dry.
3. Tinder/Firestarter – You’ll want something that ignites quickly like dry leaves or pine needles. Newspaper is great for this as well. But you can simply buy a firestarter when you get your wood.
4. Kindling – When purchasing firewood, make sure you get small strips of wood known as kindling. This will help ignite your larger logs.
5. Placing the logs – When building a fire, it’s important to place your firestarter, kindling and logs in the proper configuration to ignite properly. You can build a teepee starting with the tinder in the middle, then create a teepee shape with your kindling. Once its lit and going strong, slowly add the logs to the fire. This is one of the easiest methods for making a fire.

We also recommend having some kind of poker on hand to move the logs. If you plan on using it for cooking then a stand-up cooking rack is a great idea. We pack leather work gloves for the campsite. When you are ready for bed or leaving the campsite, be sure to put the campfire out completely with water. Pro Tip: Cotton balls rolled in vaseline make for great fire starters.

13. Water

Using a water purifier to fill our water bottles

Many campgrounds have hoses and sinks where you can wash up and get water, but we recommend bringing a large several gallon jug of water for cooking and drinking. You can get a collapsible jug for cooking and a lined insulated container to keep water cool. Make sure you have a cooler filled with ice if you are car camping.

If you are backcountry camping you will want to have a water purification system like a Steripen. That way you can get water out of streams, rivers, and lakes for safe drinking. And pack a Nalgene to refill your water instead of cups. For coffee we love insulated travel mugs.

14. Dry Your Tent

When you are finished with your tent, don’t forget to take care of it. Make sure it it dry before packing it up. If you don’t have time to dry it out, be sure to unpack it when you are home to hang it out. Sweep out the tent and make sure there is nothing left inside. Little twigs or rocks can cause holes. The more you care for your tent, the longer it will last.

Fast Hacks for Camping

15. Tripping over your tent pegs

Gather some rocks and put them over your tent pegs so you don’t stub your toe in the middle of the night.

16. Mosquito Repellant

Mix lemon and eucalyptus to create a natural mosquito repellent. Pack some sprigs of sage and burn it to deter mosquitoes from coming around the fire.

17. Use jugs of water for ice

Ice can get messy and take up a lot of space when camping. Instead, fill up your water jugs and freeze them before camping. Then use them as ice packs. They’ll keep your food cold, and slowly melt so you can drink ice water

18. Fill a hot water bottle to keep you warm at night

Or fill your Nalgene before bed with boiling water and put it in your tent to help keep you warm.

Expedition tents start to arrive at Gorak Shep near Mount Everest Base Camp.

19. Pack a pair of crocs for wearing around camp

They are easy to slide on and off when getting out of the tent and they are sturdy enough that you won’t stub your toe.

20. Pack a warm hat and warm socks for sleeping

I even love wearing a buff around my neck to keep warm. Temperatures can get chilly when camping.

21. Pack wipes and hand sanitizer

Camping can get messy and you don’t always have a sink and soap readily available. Hand wipes and sanitizer are always good to have on hand.

22. Sleep with your clothes in your sleeping bag

When camping through Africa, it was hot during the day, but freezing at night. I kept the clothes I was going to wear the next day in my sleeping bag, so I didn’t dread putting them on in the morning.

23. Don’t have a lantern? No problem

Instead, loop your headlamp around your Nalgene filled with water and shine the light towards it. You have an instant lantern!

24. Pack in bins and sacks

Staying organized when camping is key to having the most fun. Pack your food and kitchen items in bins that can be used as tables for eating and cutting. One can be used for all your food and the other for all your utensils, plates and pots.

25. Don’t forget condiments and spices

You don’t have to bring the entire kitchen, but your favorite spices and condiments can turn food from bland to wham!

Pill containers are a great way to store spices in a small space. I have seen other people recommend tic tac packets. This is a great idea, or you can just buy a Six Spice Camping shaker.

And these are all the tent camping hacks I can think of at the moment. Do you have a secret or unique camping tip to add? We’d love to hear from you. We’re always learning and adding to our camping gear list.

Useful tips – Gathering a child to a camp by the sea list of things

The main problem with the fees is not that you will forget to take some things on a trip, but that many of them will not come back! Come to terms with this loss in advance. Choose things cheaper, say goodbye to each of them. Have a cry over a beautiful new cap… Then write a LIST. Usually the camp recommends a list of necessary things, but this does not mean that you do not need to make your own list.

It is advisable to keep one copy of the list for yourself, and give the other to the child – with your signature! In case of loss of things, the child must describe their signs in a statement addressed to the camp administration. Experience shows that just before departure, some guests may trade in thefts. Many, seizing the moment, rummage through the already collected bags. At this time, you need to be especially vigilant! In case of theft, the counselors are obliged to urgently inform the administration in order to have time to arrange an inspection of the belongings of those departing who are under suspicion. However, in such cases they begin to claim that this player is their own. And only according to the list and the statement it will be possible to prove your property.

In the process of gathering with the child, it is necessary to discuss the choice of things, their functions, the expediency of their use. But do not turn the fees into an occasion for scandals, reproaches, and the struggle for your authority. Let him take what he wants – from OWN things – but with the awareness of full responsibility for them.

KIDS CAMP LIST

A good list is half the price. Let it have the following sections:

1. CLOTHING:

• headdress (cap, Panama),
• bandana,
• jeans, trousers,
• windbreaker,
• warm jacket,
• shirt,
• shorts,
• leotard, tracksuit,
• T-shirts,
• swimming trunks,
• briefs,
• T-shirts,
• socks,
• handkerchiefs.

The girls add some more points to this list, which only they themselves understand. We only recommend taking a nightgown or pajamas.

Items should be marked.

How many things – decide for yourself. Lots of socks, shorts and swim trunks. After all, they often get lost: they fly away from the balcony, or maybe they crawl into the cracks under the plinth or climb into holes (otherwise it is impossible to explain their loss). It is good if the clothes have zippered pockets. It’s bad if the fly is buttoned. Girls to the south should not take many dresses, and boys – trousers, because in the heat there will be no opportunity to wear them. But a plastic raincoat will not hurt. Convince your child to hang thick clothes in the closet on hangers – after all, in bags, especially if it is damp, it acquires a musty smell. In the Middle lane – especially if there are hikes – you need warm clothes, as well as boots and a jacket with a hood. In the south, a headdress is required. Panamas are the most hygienic, but guys prefer bandanas. This colorful handkerchief, knee-length T-shirt, rings, earrings, beads and bracelets make the boys look like Grandma Fenya, but they think they look like supermen …

2. SHOES: slippers, sandals, sneakers. In the south, you need to walk more in open shoes, otherwise mycosis will begin. Flip flops break quickly because they step on the heels. You have to buy new ones at the local market, and then walk around with your hand behind you to protect them. Boys’ sneakers tend to clog up a lot, so you need spare insoles – or at least the ability to wash them. It’s very funny when teenagers jive or waltz in basketball shoes and leotards, so those who don’t mind entering the dance competition need shoes and trousers.

3. HYGIENE:

Beach towel. To wipe off after swimming in the sea – otherwise water drops focus the sun’s rays, burning the skin. And also to wrap yourself in it in different ways, play, spank each other with a “carrot”, wallow on it, gallop back for it when you forget on the beach. Useful thing.
Soap – always with a soap dish. Better a few small pieces with a good smell, otherwise it will become sour and stink the whole nightstand.
Shampoo – disposable sachets are better, because a large bottle will spill on the road or be forgotten in the shower. Some guys are eager to paint their heads in the camp, for example, in crimson. Well, only let the parents write permission: there are no complaints about the camp. Let them take a tonal shampoo, but at least a drying helmet is their business. But it’s better to do it before the trip: the “raspberry head” will not get lost in the crowd…
A tube of paste – but the counselor will take it away so that they don’t smear themselves.
Three cheap toothbrushes – one is often lost, forgotten in the washbasin. It is imperative to convince the child to brush his teeth not only in the morning, but also at night! – yes, so hard that the bristles are flattened. And after that, no longer chew on sweets under the pillow. Otherwise, it will bring caries!
Toilet paper , and preferably napkins. Suitable for a variety of occasions. Disposable handkerchiefs, because in the camp – always snot.
For boys – razor . For girls – pads, tampons . And willingness to bleed out of time.
Something for acne . This is a common problem in the camp.
Deodorant : Low fragrance roll-on antiperspirant. But not a cheap aerosol: in the heat it is poison!
DO NOT TAKE – stinking perfume in a glass bottle. They will break it, spill it – and suffocate in the ward!
Sun protection . Very important when traveling south. The closer to the equator, the less reason for jokes: burns of the retina, skin, and even melanoma are possible. Therefore, you must definitely take dark glasses (preferably two) – with UV protection, plus a cord so as not to drop them. And sunscreen (sunscreen). Don’t forget to brush your ears and nose. They will also be protected by a headdress with fields. In the sun, we don’t wear a T-shirt, but a T-shirt, otherwise our shoulders and collarbones will burn. You can even swim in a T-shirt – warmer.
Mosquito repellant . It is better to buy a more expensive cream – it is more effective and not so harmful to the skin. The bites of southern mosquitoes in many children cause a strong skin reaction – you need to have a special cream.
Safety scissors . Useful for trimming your nails or cutting off a band-aid. But in no case should you give them to the counselors to cut out paper tinsel! – scissors will not return…
Antibiotic liniment . Needed to treat piercings and earrings, which often become inflamed from bathing.

4. PAPER

• Personal documents (certificate, passport, international passport)
• Medical certificate.
• Questionnaire. Some camps require a description of the child’s chronic illness, allergies, personal preferences, hobbies, and other individual qualities.
• Agree with the rules and regulations of the camp.
• A copy of the medical policy.
• Voucher.
• To cross the border – a notarized consent from the parents.
• Money. If it is provided for by the rules, they must be handed over to the accompanying or other responsible person – and sign the amount. The money that remains with the child should be kept in the fastened pockets of clothing – and this clothing should not be left unattended. The worst way to carry money is in a purse in the outer pocket of a bag. Worse than this – only in the fist.
• Drawing book. Pens, pencils.
• Magazine, look through. Or a small book – for those who like to read.
• Some decent photos of your adventures to show to new friends.
• Note in the bag: full name, phone number of parents, home address, camp address. In case they lose or mix up a bag, a suitcase, and maybe the child himself – many do not remember this data!

*Make copies of all documents.

5. ITEMS

• DO NOT bring jewelry or expensive equipment to camp. But if a young traveler stubbornly drags a player, a camera or a gold chain with him, let him take care of them – and keep them with responsible persons, or NEVER let him out of his attention. The player or phone are wild animals. One has only to take them for a walk without a leash, or leave them to charge – and then turn away for a minute, as they will immediately run away!
• Games, toys – such that it will not be a pity to lose. It is best to bring a soft toy with you.
• Something for a masquerade. Fun.
• Threads of two colors and a pair of needles (you can’t interrogate the counselors).
• Pack of activated carbon. A versatile antidote that absorbs toxins.
• Adhesive plaster.

Have a good rest!

USEFUL TIPS | Children’s camp them. Yu.A. Gagarin, Zavodoukovsk

If you are sending your child to camp for the first time, then this column is for you! In this section, we will give you basic tips on how to bring your child to camp and how to properly communicate with your child during his stay at the camp. And so, let’s start …

1) Packing for the road. Probably the most thorough procedure, which is fraught with many pitfalls. When sending a child to the camp (especially if his age is 6-12 years old), you may not see half of the things after the shift, so that this does not happen, you need to do the following:

• Pack the things you don’t mind at camp,
• Make a list of things, put it in a suitcase with your child, this will help your child get ready for the trip back,
• Mark things. Any mark will do. Now there are a lot of identical things and your child’s neighbor can easily put two identical sweaters, taking both his own and someone else’s,
• Give the child the necessary minimum of things, the more variety there is, the more likely it is that some of the things will be forgotten.

In addition, along with the ticket, a list of necessary things is issued, do not neglect it, collect everything that is indicated in it! We note the most important things in this section:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, washcloth, comb, (elastic bands and hairpins for girls), warm clothes (even if you send a child in summer, remember that the weather can be unpredictable) , replaceable and sports shoes, headgear.

And there are things that are not recommended to take to the camp, they will become an extra burden for your child.

• Medications (with the exception of drugs for the chronic and those drugs that must be taken in continuous courses) – our camp has an excellent medical building with all the necessary medicines,
• A cell phone, it will only interfere with the child during the shift, Gagarin has a landline phone, on which you can call your child every day from 8:00 to 17:00 or he can call you,
• Money, a small amount will not hurt him, but giving huge fortunes is not worth it,
• Precious jewelry, there is a possibility that the child will simply lose an expensive item,
• PSP tablet, laptop and other equipment – this will distract the child from the program offered at the camp, it makes no sense to send the child to rest if he plays computer games all day,
• Not recommended products. You can check their list at the camp, remember that we have a balanced menu, and any snacks can reduce the healing effect for the digestive system.

2) Communication with the child is no less important topic for parents, here are the most important rules:

• Do not call or come to the child in the first 3 days – this interferes with the child’s adaptation,
• Call the child no more than 1 time in 2-3 days, if the child is small and very bored, then limit yourself to 1 conversation per day,
• Visit your child once a week or less, give him freedom,
• If a child is in the camp for the first time and cries, do not give in to emotions, be patient, this is a normal reaction for children entering the camp for the first time,
• And most importantly, remember that a child, in order to get what he wants, can go to different tricks and what he tells you does not always reflect the real situation, call the camp to find out how the child is doing, and only then draw conclusions.