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Essential Tips For First Time Campers

Camping is one of our favourite ways to getaway and enjoy some well needed R&R. As the long weekend approaches there will be plenty of people heading to different campsites around the country. If its your first time exploring the outdoors, its important to know some essentials for camping.

Here are some essential tips for first time campers:

1. Pack wisely

You don’t need to pack like you are going on a six-month voyage. Focus on the essentials and pack smart. Make a checklist starting from the top of your head all the way down to your toes. Make sure that you pack rain gear as the weather can be very unpredictable. Most importantly, make a cooking checklist and be practical, so pack disposable cutlery and crockery.

Pro tip: Our Arctic Hiking 45L Backpacks are ideal for camping, hiking or everyday use. Check them out here.

2. Become familiar with your gear

You might go and buy the latest camping gear but there is no point waiting till you get to the campsite before trying it out. People fumble for hours trying to figure out how to set up a new tent. Practice really does make perfect. Set up tents in your backyard before taking them camping. Check the operation of lanterns and camp stoves to make sure they work properly. Try your sleeping bag one night on the living room floor to see how well you sleep in it. Be a smart camper, become familiar with your gear.

Pro tip: Our pop-up tents can be set up and packed down in minutes. Check them out here.

3. Plan your trip

When choosing where to camp, think about what there is to do nearby. Whether you want to do long hikes, cycling trips or ride horses, you should check out what the surrounding areas offer. Also, highly recommend finding out where the nearest shops or restaurants are – just in case camp food isn’t working out for you! Having a bit of a plan will always help you get the most from your trip.

Pro tip: Check out our blog post on top camping spots around Australia here.

4. Plan your meals

In addition to planning your trip, you should most definitely plan your meals. Most new campers don’t always put enough thought into meal planning. You should try and figure out how many meals you will be making and for how many people. Try and put together some menu ideas that are not overly fancy and easy to prepare. While it may sound tempting, don’t just do a quick stop at the local servo and buy your food before getting to the campsite. You won’t be able to survive on just snacks and should plan for proper meals.

Pro tip: Make the first night a breeze by prepping your first meal before you leave.

5. Leave only footprints

This is one of the most important tips for first time campers. Always leave your campsite how you would expect to find it. Remember you are sharing your home with wildlife and other campers, and you should not leave behind any rubbish. Be a clean camper and pick up after yourself, specially when you are packing up your camp. Campsites have plenty of large bins on site to put rubbish into, and if they don’t or are full, carry your own garbage bags and take the rubbish back with you to dispose it at home.

Check out our range of camping equipment here.