SHTFPreparedness may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.
For every person out there who loves camping, there is another who has no idea what it feels like. It is not easy to get into camping, so knowing some camping for beginners tricks might come in handy.
Any seasoned camper will tell you that only a handful of things in this world can beat sleeping under the stars or the refreshing feeling one gets as they connect with nature.
If you’re a first-time camper and want to make the most of your camping experience, read on. We’ll give you the lowdown to help you do more than just survive the experience.
7 Tips for Camping Beginners
For most of us, the whole point of going away on a camping vacation is to relax, have fun, and bond with nature.
For anyone trying it out for the first time, this presents a mix of excitement and doubt. You’ll be excited about camping but also worried and imagining terrible things.
Here are some tips to help you ace that first camping vacation like the pros.
1. Choose Your Camping Site Wisely
Thinking about going to a far-off campsite to get away from it all?
That’s great, but not for a first-time camper taking the solo route or if all the members in your group are first-time campers. Your first night away from home may make you dislike camping.
Your camping gear may refuse to work, you may run out of food, or, worse still, the weather takes a turn for the worse. Give it a couple of nights (and days), and you will get used to it.
If you are bringing your children along, look for family-friendly camping sites. Children love playing and exploring, and this is one of the best ways to get them away from the digital screens.
However, pay close attention to them, particularly if you’re camping in an open area. The same thing applies to your pet.
Find out in advance if your desired campsite is pet-friendly, and, while you are there, keep your pet close for safety so that he does not bother other campers.
If you can’t stand the thought of going for a couple of days without hitting the shower or finding alternative ways to use the toilet, look for a campsite that offers these facilities. You may have to pay to use them, but that’s a small price for your comfort.
2. Think About Your Accommodation
RV campers have more space to maneuver compared to tent users. A tent always looks spacious until you have to live in it.
Since space fills up easily, look for a tent that can comfortably accommodate the campers and their gear. If you’re buying a tent, go for one that’s two sizes bigger than the number of campers.
If you’re sharing a tent with three other people, go for a 6-person tent rather than the 4-person dome tent. It will help keep all the campers comfortable and less cranky.
Additionally, tent manufacturers are always coming up with new models that cost a fortune. Buying the previous year’s model will save you a ton of money.
If you are looking for a bargain, be sure to buy your camping gear off-season. You can also find great deals online on backpacks, hammocks, insect repellent, and multi-functional pocket knives, among others.
3. Choose The Right Clothes
First-time campers often pack way too many clothes, which is not necessarily a negative thing.
Summer evenings can get really cold, and the weather is known to play havoc on campers, changing from endless sunny days to chilly times filled with torrential rain.
Having extra layers of clothes and blankets will help you stay warm. It is important for you to pay attention to weather forecasts rather than the clear skies above you.
If the weatherman predicts rainy days ahead, carry extra clothes in case the rain catches up with you. Make sure your clothes fit your destination and activities.
As mentioned earlier, leave any clothes or shoes that you don’t want to see ruined at home. Additionally, use dark colors to prevent stains on the clothes.
Be generous with warm socks—if your feet are freezing, you won’t be able to sleep. Long socks will also protect your legs and feet from cuts and bruises should you decide to go for a hike.
4. Test Everything at Home First
Many of us like to keep our new stuff intact and in its original packaging until we have to use it, but this is usually a detrimental idea when it comes to camping.
The last thing you want is to discover your gear breaks at the campsite.
Moreover, if you don’t know how to set up your camper, don’t wait to read the manual at the campsite; practice doing it in your backyard first.
If you are using an RV or camper trailer, check the vehicle’s electrics, tires, and brakes. While you’re there, spend a night in the camper to try out the sleeping facilities.
5. Plan Your Meals
Part of testing your camp stove involves making a meal on it to see how long it takes. Your meals should revolve around your dietary requirements, preparation, and cooking time.
Think about the number of meals you will need to eat, the number of campers, and how much you can carry to the site.
Come up with healthy and easy-to-make recipes and shop for the ingredients just before the trip to keep veggies and fruits fresh for longer.
Load up lots of fresh fruits and nuts to snack on in between meals. Bring along a portable refrigerator to keep your food and drinks cool and fresh if your camper doesn’t already have one.
Remember to carry plenty of water, as you will need to stay hydrated while camping. Sometimes, the closest supermarket is far away, and you don’t want to be without this important drink.
Lastly, camping isn’t camping without s’mores, so throw them in to make time around the campfire more memorable and fun.
6. Arrive Early and Keep The Kids Busy
There are numerous reasons why you should arrive at the campsite early.
First, you will have the opportunity to explore your surroundings, check out the facilities available, and find the perfect spot to set up camp. It will also give you ample time to set up your tent, camper, or RV.
Pitching a tent in the dark is a sure way to frustrate yourself and annoy your neighbors. Arriving early will give you the chance to familiarize yourself with campsite etiquette.
Many first-time campers don’t realize that campsites have rules and regulations and end up breaking some of them, much to the chagrin of other campers.
Plan the activities that you will engage in at the campsite. Nothing kills the mood faster than a group of bored campers, especially if they are young children or teens.
As you’re setting up camp, give them jobs to do. As you settle in, consider the games and activities you can enjoy together or individually.
7. Have a Checklist
Even the most experienced campers can attest to forgetting things every once in a while.
Make a list of everything you need and check it off as you pack. Ideally, your checklist should comprise everything from A to Z, including equipment, clothing, and supplies.
It could even include jobs to do before you leave, such as checking your vehicle and camper’s tires, filling up with gas, etc.
You’ll probably amend the list several times as you get used to the ins and outs of camping.
You’re On Your Way!
Now that we’ve given you all these handy hints, tips, and tricks for your first camping experience, your new-found knowledge will help to make your first trip a great success.
Have a plan, but stay open to changes. Your older children may choose to go off by themselves, or another camping family could join you and change your itinerary.
The checklist is probably the most important part of the advice—update it regularly, adding and removing tasks and products as you become a more seasoned camper.
There you have it! We hope our camping for beginners plan will help you have an enjoyable camping experience.
