Camping is one of my favourite ways to unplug from the stress of school, allowing me to relax and reconnect with nature. When I first got into camping, however, I was definitely a little nervous. I had no clue what to pack, how to set up a tent, or what to expect from sleeping outside. Now, after my first few camping trips, I’ve learned a few things that made the experience way less stressful and way more fun. Here are a few things I would recommend for any first-time campers:
Tip 1: Keep Gear Simple
I used to think I needed every gadget in the outdoor section of the store. The reality? A basic tent, sleeping bag, and flashlight were all I really needed. My favourite brands of tents, sleeping bags, and flashlights have consistently held up year after year, making camping a whole lot easier. Keeping things simple made packing easier, allowing me to focus on enjoying nature instead of worrying about losing or damaging my belongings.
Tip 2: Practice Setting Up Tents
My first trip involved a lot of trial and error as I attempted to set up my tent, wasting valuable hiking time on trying to figure out where the poles and stakes went. Now, I set up my tent in my
backyard or living room at least once before going out to refresh my memory. It saves a lot of stress at the campsite, and I feel way more confident when I arrive.
Tip 3: Pack Smart Snacks
I’ve learned that bringing food that’s easy to carry and won’t spoil helps a lot during the camping trip. I like to pack trail mix, granola bars, and beef jerky for quick snacks during hikes. I also like to bring ingredients for simple campfire meals, like hot dogs, or a mix of marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers (for s’mores, of course!). Cooking over the campfire can take a bit of practice, so I recommend watching some tutorials beforehand to prepare. I’ve found that having both snacks and easy-to-cook meals keeps me fuelled and makes the whole experience way more fun.
Tip 4: Bring Extra Layers
On my first ever camping trip, I remember waking up in the middle of the night shivering. Now, I always bring extra layers, even if it’s warm during the day. A light fleece jacket makes a huge difference for colder nights, while not adding much weight or bulk to my bag.
Tip 5: Make a Checklist for the Small Things
In the rush of packing and heading to the campsite, I always seem to forget something, like toilet paper, a first-aid kit, or a phone charger. Those little things are easy to miss but always crucial. Now, I make a quick checklist before every trip. It helps me feel prepared without overpacking.
Camping for the first time can feel overwhelming, but these simple tips have made my trips way more enjoyable. Even when things don’t go perfectly, try and remember that it’s all about enjoying the outdoors, and slowing down from the busyness of life.
