23/08/2022
⛺️⛺️CAMPING WITH SHARON⛺️⛺️
Always plan for bad weather
The weather is always unpredictable. I recommend packing:
• Plenty of warm layers
• A warm hat
• Waterproof clothing
• Sun protection
• Insect repellent
Check the weather forecast
Despite it not always being accurate, checking the weather forecast will give you a good idea of what to prepare for.
There’s nothing wrong with being over-prepared
Sure, packing light is handy. However, you won’t know what you really need until you’ve been camping a few times. Don’t listen to anyone that tells you that you’ve packed too much. It’s fine to be prepared for all situations until you can put together your own, personalised list of essentials to pack.
Take a first aid kit
Fingers crossed you won’t need to use it, but having the basics to clean and bandage a wound will be invaluable if you or someone you’re with does have an accident. If you’re camping with a dog, taking a separate first aid kit is a great idea.
Use a packing list before setting off
There are endless camping packing lists available online.
Don’t pitch up under a tree
Although it can make for a great photo opportunity, pitching up under a tree can pose a few issues. Trees in high wind can become a real hazard with falling branches very likely to cause damage to your unit. It’s also really annoying having to clean tree sap off or bird mess off of your tent.
Don’t forget about lighting!
Consider whether you’d prefer a hand-held torch or a headlight for trips to the facilities after dark. Check if there’s a convenient place in your unit to hang a lantern, if not you may need to get a free-standing light.
Pack a portable charger
You’ll most likely run out of battery on your phone during your trip and it’d be a shame not to be able to snap your memorable moments. Many campsites offer electric pitches and phone charging facilities but having a portable option while you’re away from the campsite can be useful.
Prioritise entertainment
Books, board games, cards and outdoor games are all options for staying entertained on the campsite.
Leave your tech at home
Signal can be variable in rural camping locations so online streaming can be hit and miss. Taking a phone for accessing online maps, contacting people and taking pictures is fine but leave the rest of the tech (and the stress) at home.
Pack a small table and some chairs
You’ll miss basic items of furniture when you’re camping. Having a chair and table, a place to set your tea down and enjoy your meals is a great way to make your unit feel a little more like home.
Give kids something to do while you pitch up
Arriving on your chosen campsite is an exciting moment. However, the mood can sometimes be ruined with kid’s boredom while adults are busy setting up the camping area. Give older kids helpful jobs to do and plan fun activities younger kids can do without assistance while you’re busy setting up.
Make your set up twinkle with fairy lights
Fairy lights make great, affordable lighting inside your unit. They’ll also help to create a lovely, relaxing atmosphere.
Take your own toilet paper
If you’re staying on a campsite that doesn’t guarantee toilet paper, make sure you take your own. You can keep it in a reusable sealable bag to save on space if needed. Many campers take anti-bacterial wipes and wet wipes so they’re always prepared for the facilities block.
Reuse your plastic bags
Camping is a great way of reusing any plastic bags you have. Use them for waterproofing items, storing dirty clothes, carrying items from the campsite shop and much more. Just remember to reuse them as many times as you can!
Pack your car in an order
Put your tent and any other essentials you may need to grab while you’re pitching up in the car last. This means they’ll be the first things you can grab when you arrive on your chosen campsite.
Pack earplugs
This is a great tip, just in case you find yourself with noisy neighbours or unused to the sounds of the great outdoors while you’re trying to sleep. Most campsites will have rules around noise levels after a certain time of night. Pack a pair of earplugs and you’ll always be able to sleep soundly.
Check your campsites rules
Most campsites will have a set of guidelines you’ll be required to follow. This is for the safety and comfort of everyone on the campsite. Don’t leave valuables unattended
Unfortunately, there are opportunistic people around, and you’ll need to be vigilant with your valuables. Use your common sense and don’t leave things unattended. If you’re leaving the campsite for the day, take any valuables with you and always remember to lock up your bikes.
INFORMATION RECEIVED FROM GOOGLE (CAMPING IN THE FOREST)
