Getting outside and enjoying nature is a nice break from our busy lives. But while planning a camping trip, we can forget how important preparation is. Packing smartly and making sure we have all the needed items can be harder than we think. Let's look at some common problems campers face and how we can solve them.
Creating a camping list can seem like an unnecessary activity, but let me assure you that the number of times I have forgotten small items, that by sods law, you need on the first day, has made me realize that the process of creating a checklist is well worth it. You need to figure out what to bring, how to pack it tight, and how to make it easy to find what you need.
Few things are more annoying than getting to your campsite and finding out you forgot important camping essentials. A missing toothbrush or a lost first aid kit can quickly ruin your day.
That’s why having a detailed camping essentials list is very helpful. By writing down everything you will need, from toiletries to essential camping equipment, you can pack wisely. This way, you can feel sure that you won’t forget something important.
A good checklist gives you peace of mind. You will know that you have everything ready for a safe and fun trip.
Why not download our checklist below, it will help you document everything you need to take with you. Be sure to include:
Whether you are an expert backpacker or a family starting their first tent camping trip, a robust checklists will help you get well on your way!
Getting ready for a camping trip can be stressful. There is a lot to think about to ensure your camping trip goes off without a hitch.
This is a bit of a no-brainer, choosing the right camping equipment is important for your comfort and safety. You should think about the weather, the location you will be camping in, how long you will be camping, and what you like/how you relax.
For example, pick a sleeping bag that will keep you warm enough. There are a few options, but I would recommend using a minimum of a 3 season sleeping bag. There's nothing worse than being cold through the night, and the unpredictable British weather can bring unexpected chills, so it's better to be prepared.
Select a good mattress, or sleeping pad. The inflatable mattresses you can buy these days are easy to inflate and are much more comfortable than they used to be. For those of you that are a little more hardcore, you might want to look at the self inflating pads, obviously not as comfortable but it will put a barrier between you and the ground, helping you to retain heat.
Bring enough toilet paper for everyone in your group, especially if you are wild camping and toilet facilities may not be in your immediate vicinity. You may need to find the perfect bush to do your business, but the last thing you want is to use the wrong leaf.
Make sure your first aid kit is filled with the right medical supplies. Don't be afraid to spend a little more on good camping equipment, It will be worth it later.
Using good packing techniques can really improve your camping experience. Dry bags are key for keeping your things safe from moisture. Packing cubes can help you squeeze clothing into your backpack and save space.
You might try the "roll and stuff" method for your clothes. This means rolling each item tight and putting them into your shoes or cooking pans. If you have a camp bed, you can store your sleeping bag and pillow inside it. This makes transporting them easier.
Ultimately, its about understanding what you need, what are the luxuries you might be able to forgo, and how you can move everything without a camel.
We touched on some of the things to think about before your next camping trip. I wanted to go into a little more detail about each core item of camping equipment.
Your tent is like your second home. It keeps you safe from bad weather. When picking a tent, think about how many people will use it, the sleeping arrangements, and the living area, as well as any sheltered storage needs. You should also look for how easy it is to set up, how waterproof it is, and how well it can handle weather. Most tents these days use waterproof rating, which indicates how effective the tent is in various weather conditions. Read more about tent waterproofing.
A good sleeping bag and a comfy sleeping pad or mattress will help you sleep better at night. I find it essential to get a good nights sleep so make extra effort to ensure I will be warm and comfortable through the night.
For extra comfort, so you can enjoy sitting out, you can bring camp chairs, a camping table, and a lantern. A lantern will give nice light at your campsite and will help you to see during the night as it can get very dark, especially if your away from light pollution.
Campsite cooking can be fun and tasty, if you have the right tools. A portable camp stove and fuel are key for warming up meals and boiling water. Don’t forget important utensils. You should pack a spatula, tongs, and a sharp knife.
If you like grilling, think about getting a portable camping grill. It gives you a real outdoor taste. Cooler bags are important for keeping your food fresh, especially when it’s hot outside, as well as solid storage containers to keep out wildlife . Remember to bring lots of snacks and non-perishable foods. They will help keep your energy up during your camping adventures, as well as bottled water, as its easy to get caught out on a hot day.
While camping lets you take a break from technology, it's important to stay safe and be ready for surprises. Packing the right safety and navigation tools can help you have a relaxing time. This way, you can enjoy the beauty of nature without worry.
A good first aid kit is a must for your camping trip. It should have important medicines, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. You should also pack a whistle to call for help if you need it. Include a basic survival kit too, which should have a compass, waterproof matches, and a multi-tool.Make sure to tell someone about your camping plans. Give them your trip details and when you expect to come back. This designated contact can be very helpful in case of emergencies.
Familiarise yourself with the area you'll be camping in and pack appropriate navigation tools. While GPS devices and smartphone apps offer convenience, always carry a physical map and compass as backups. Learn basic navigation skills beforehand to ensure you can find your way even without technology.
Reliable, no batteries required
Requires map-reading skills
Essential for accurate direction finding
Needs to be used in conjunction with a map
User-friendly, provides precise location data
Battery-dependent, may not work in remote areas
The most frequently asked questions from some of the most novice and experienced campers. This just goes to show no matter how experienced you may be, there can sometimes be a question mark.
