With forethought and a little imagination your camping trip can be very enjoyable and a bit of an adventure. Before I go off on holiday I always have a practice in my garden and make sure I can remember how to put my tent up. When my tent is erected this also gives me the chance to check that all the pieces are there and in good working order and I can also make sure my tent is waterproof. If I have bought a new tent then this will give me the chance to familiarise myself with it before I venture out. Just think how embarrassed I would feel if I arrived at my beautiful destination and didn’t know how to assemble my holiday accommodation!
When I have chosen my destination and found my camping site I think facilities, do I want to have them readily available or do I want to ‘rough it’. If I were a happy hiker and carrying my tent and equipment in a rucksack then depending on where I stopped for the night I may have to forgo some of life’s little creature comforts. I would also be limited to how much I can physically carry so I would have to remember to take this into account when packing.
If I were travelling by car or van then obviously I can take more equipment and can travel further afield. There are many organised camping sites available world-wide. They vary from basic sites with water and toilet facilities to ones that also include a swimming pool, shops, restaurants and entertainment. Costs will vary immensely so I always weigh up my options before I decide. Do I want peace and quiet and open spaces, basic facilities or a more sociable and busy holiday full of entertainment, the choice is mine.
Normally when camping I cater for myself so I obviously will need some sort of cooker. I could by a small gas or petrol stove and can choose between single ringed stoves or larger double ringed cookers. It may take skill and ingenuity to cook a three course meal on them but they will do the job of heating or cooking my basic food. Opting for nostalgia and lighting a fire is always a last resort as my surroundings might be dry and a spark could easily set dry undergrowth alight. Apart from the safety aspect fuel would have to be collected for the fire, not easy if there are no old branches or pieces of wood in the near vicinity.
I really do think it is a good idea to make a list before I embark on any trip. For camping you really do need to remember the basics. A drinking vessel, water, plate, cutlery, pot for cooking and heating water in, a torch and of course a warm sleeping bag are a definite must as is the one thing most people forget – a can opener! On a personal level, I always think it is also a good idea to take along my own toilet roll. A camping bed or blow up bed are also a must so that I can hopefully have a good nights sleep off the lumpy ground. I also take warm clothes even if I am travelling in the summer as night time can be decidedly chilly in a tent.
Careful thought goes into what food to take. If I only have one cooking ring then there is no point in taking food which needs to be oven cooked! Unless I can buy fresh food daily then tinned food is ideal as I won’t have a fridge to keep perishable food in.
Most importantly remember to do as I do and leave my camping site as I would wish to find it, clean and tidy, I remove all my rubbish and leave it looking as if I was never there.
Camping can be a wonderful way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors, but if you’re a beginner, it’s important to be prepared. Here are some tips to help you have a successful and enjoyable camping holiday:
1. Choose the Right Campsite
– Research: Look for campsites that fit your skill level. National parks and designated campgrounds often have amenities like restrooms and water.
– Reservations: Some popular sites may require reservations, so check in advance.
2. Essential Gear
– Tent: Invest in a good quality tent that’s easy to set up and has enough space for your group.
– Sleeping Gear: Bring sleeping bags rated for the temperature you’ll encounter, along with sleeping pads or inflatable mattresses for comfort.
– Cooking Equipment: A portable stove, cooking utensils, and a cooler for food. Don’t forget matches or a lighter!
3. Packing Smart
– Checklist: Make a packing list to avoid forgetting essential items, such as clothing, toiletries, food, and gear.
– Weather Preparedness: Pack layers of clothing suitable for both warm days and cold nights. Waterproof gear can be crucial in unexpected rain.
4. Food and Water
– Plan Meals: Prepare easy-to-cook meals or snacks. Pre-packaged meals and trail mix can work well.
– Water Supply: Bring enough water for drinking and cooking, or a reliable water purification system if you’re sourcing from streams or lakes.
5. Know the Basics of Campfire Safety
– Fire Pit: Always use established fire rings, and make sure to check local regulations regarding campfires.
– Extinguish Completely: Make sure your fire is completely out before leaving the site or going to bed.
6. Leave No Trace
– Respect Nature: Carry out what you carry in. Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
– Waste Disposal: Use proper disposal methods for waste. For campgrounds, use trash bins; for backcountry, pack out all waste.
7. Stay Safe
– Wildlife Awareness**: Store food securely to avoid attracting animals. Use bear-proof containers if camping in bear country.
– First Aid Kit: Have a well-stocked first aid kit and know how to use it. Include insect repellent and sunscreen.
8. Stay Connected (If Necessary)
– Navigation Tools: Bring maps, a compass, or GPS devices. Familiarize yourself with the area you’ll be camping in.
– Emergency Contacts: Always inform someone of your camping plans, including your expected return time.
9. Enjoy the Experience
– Unplug: Embrace the opportunity to disconnect from technology and enjoy nature’s beauty.
– Explore: Take time to hike, read, or just relax at your campsite. Enjoy the outdoors at your own pace.
10. Learn and Adapt
– Reflect on Your Experience: After your trip, think about what worked, what didn’t, and what you’ll do differently next time. Camping is a skill that gets better with practice!
By following these tips, you should have a great start to your camping journey. Happy camping!
Have a good camping trip!
