The Ten Best Camping Tips for Beginners
I’m just about to pop my camping cherry. What I’ve found out so far is this: once a sleeping bag is removed from its outer bag, putting it back inside is like giving birth in reverse. Not easy. I’m starting to see how camping may have a few little irritations up its sleeve for me to discover, so I’ve been asking around for some tips. What to pack, how to survive if the heavens open and how to avoid shame on the campsite for knowing, well, nothing at all. I got some ideas on how to camp in style here. Let me share some other nuggets of great advice I’ve received:
- Even in the height of summer, the UK is more brass-monkeys than balmy in the middle of the night, so pack some warm night clothes and toasty socks.
- If your sleeping bag’s a thing of beauty, chances are it’s not a thing of practicality. Is it designed for the right season? What is the comfortable temperature range? If you don’t know, find out.
- I’m banging on about the fabled British weather again, but make sure you’re kitted out for the worst case scenario: fleeces, cagoules and wellies could be your saviour.
- If you don’t want the day to be over at dusk, get some lighting for your tent — LED options are brilliant. And a torch for finding the loos in the dark is another must.
- Genius appliances like kettles and fridges that plug into your car can help you feel less detached from the “all mod cons” life that you’re used to.
- If you’ve got kids, make sure you’re prepared for life after their bedtime: pack magazines, books, snacks and an alcohol stash (purely for keeping warm, you understand).
- Take plenty of water and plan your meals ahead to make sure noone goes hungry or thirsty… unless you’re keen on learning some foraging skills while you’re away.
- Make sure you know what facilities the campsite offers and feel comfortable you’ve made the right choice. Try to read reviews by other campers in the interest of objectivity.
- Take all the gear you need for cooking, eating and drinking: a stove, gas, cooking pots & pans, plates, cups, glasses, cutlery and a table & chairs. Don’t forget bottle & can openers.
- Plan some things to do on the campsite or the nearby area — and have a bad-weather contingency.
