Basic Camping Tips: Essentials for Beginners

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First-timers should know there will most certainly be challenges, but most will agree, the enjoyment of camping far surpasses the challenges you might face.Camping offers an opportunity to slow down, be surrounded by nature and truly connect with loved ones, boosting your health and wellbeing in the process.

Camping is the perfect getaway from your daily life, and with some planning, you can feel confident and in control of your trip's activities. Whether you want to relax during a getaway or go on an exciting recreational escape with the family, you can find what you’re looking for in the great outdoors.

If you're new to camping, the best way to learn is to jump right in and try. You may encounter a few bumps along the road, but it is important to remember that your camping trip will rarely go as planned. Get familiar with camping basics, and start making memories of experiences that will help you become better at camping.

How to Start Camping

A good camping shelter is simple to use and able to keep you dry, warm and safe. How to camp comfortably and safely depends on how you choose to stay — in a tent or an alternative lodging option. Tents are a popular beginner-friendly option because they are portable and adaptable.

You can find tents in various shapes and sizes, with varying degrees of weather protection and insulation. Some are designed with solo travelers in mind, while others have multiple rooms for the whole family. Before choosing a tent for your first camping trip, consider the following:

  • Your needs: Tents are beginner-friendly for most campers but not suitable for everyone. Older adults or those who may struggle sleeping on the ground should seek out more comfortable alternatives. Additionally, some tents may not be ideal for young children or rambunctious pets.
  • The weather: Tents do not have air conditioning or heating. For hot weather camping, you can pitch your tent in the shade or bring along a battery-operated fan — but some prefer to skip tent camping in the heat altogether. Frigid temperatures can also pose as a deterrent. While tent heaters are available, they require strict attention to safety guidelines and may not be ideal for all environments.
  • Your experience: If you are unsure how to get into camping, one of the best places to start is by learning how to pitch a tent and create your own campsite. That said, some tents are more complicated than others and may require assistance or previous training. Always read your tent user manual and watch some how-to videos before you hit the road.

Essential Gear

Camping is like staying in a primitive cabin, minus the cabin itself. So, in addition to your tent, pack as though you're going to stay someplace where there's little or no furniture, no electricity, no stove or refrigerator, and the cupboards are bare. A typical campsite has a table (if not, you'll want to bring one), a place to park a car and a place to pitch your tent.

You can keep your initial investment low if you borrow or rent the priciest items—typically, the tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad. Renting is often a better strategy than paying bottom dollar for something that might not last through a single camping trip. Plus, renting allows you to test out different gear to get a feel for what you like.

Tent: If your budget can go a little bigger, then go bigger with your tent. Consider choosing a tent with a capacity larger than what you envision needing. For instance, if you're camping with just one other person, a 3-person shelter will provide you both with a little extra breathing room. And a family of four can more easily achieve harmony in a 6-person tent. You can also check the tent's peak height if you want a shelter you can stand up in, which can make getting dressed and moving around easier. 

Sleeping Bag: When selecting your bag, temperature rating is a good place to start. If you're planning on only going fair-weather camping, a summer bag is probably all you'll need. But a 3-season bag will give you more leeway for unpredictable shoulder-season weather. If you're always cold (or always hot), adjust accordingly.

Sleeping Pad: A good sleeping pad provides comfort, but it also has high-tech insulation to prevent you from losing body heat to the cold ground. Big air mattresses, like what your guests sleep on at home, might look temptingly plush, but their lack of insulation will likely leave you feeling chilly. Take a look at specs when comparing sleeping pads, paying close attention to thickness, length, width and insulation value (known as the R-value).

Lighting: Campsites don't have illumination, so you have to bring your own. A flashlight is OK, but a headlamp frees up your hands for camp tasks. A lantern is nice for ambient light. Or you can build a campfire, but research fire restrictions ahead of time.

Stove: A classic two-burner propane camp stove should do the trick. You won't spend a fortune, and you can cook breakfast and prepare your morning brew at the same time. Bring at least a couple of fuel canisters and a lighter.

Cooler: You probably already have a cooler at home that will work just fine for a camping trip. Just be sure you have enough capacity for your perishable food and a few cold ones, along with enough ice to keep 'em chilled. If you're in the market for a new one, there are plenty of options. Some have extra-thick insulation to keep things colder for longer. Others are designed to be worn like backpacks, making them easier to tote from car to campground.

Pots, Plates, Cups and Sporks: You should bring everything necessary for food prep and consumption. You can raid your home kitchen for these items, but leave the fina china at home. You can also invest in camp-specific dinnerware, cutlery and cookware. These items are typically more durable, lightweight and compact than what you would use at home. And unless you plan on taking dirty dishes home, you'll need a scrubber, biodegradable soap, a towel and a small washtub or two (one for dirty, one for clean).

Camp Chairs: These are optional, but downtime will be a little more enjoyable if you have a comfy place to perch. You can also consider a hammock, which is great for afternoon naps.More to see:First Time Camper Checklist

Tips for Pitching a Tent

Tent assembly depends on which type of tent you own, where you are assembling it and what kinds of add-ons and accessories you are using with it.

If you are a beginner camper, here are some tips for setting up your tent:

Know your tent: To assemble your tent correctly, you need to know which type of unit you own. Common tents include dome, A-frame, popup and ridge tents, though other variations are available. Check with your tent owner’s manual for specific instructions.

Choose a level spot: The place you pitch your tent must be on flat ground, preferably near shade, away from fire pits and mud, rocks or tree roots. Avoid pitching in areas where rainwater might gather and seep inside. Fortunately, every Tent Site at Peirhw is level and spacious, making it easier than ever to set up camp.

Be mindful of tent stakes: If using stakes to secure your tent or tarp, pack extra if possible. Be sure to stick stakes deep into the ground and always practice caution when walking near them — they are notorious tripping hazards.

Always use a tarp: Even when you know rain is not in the forecast, you want to avoid being surprised by a late night drizzle. A tarp helps insulate your tent from the elements. It’s also good for summer camping and will keep your tent from overheating.

Make it more comfortable: To make your tent more comfortable, consider choosing a unit with a window for airflow and natural light. Bring along a battery-operated fan or tent-safe heater to create your ideal sleeping environment. If possible, sleep off the ground by using a cot, inflatable mattress or sleeping pad — this will help keep you warmer, drier and less likely to wake up with any muscle soreness. Look for water-resistant tents when shopping and hang a tarp over the roof of your tent for additional rain protection.

Meal Planning for Camping

The easiest way to save time and make camp cooking a breeze is to plan your meals before you go. This will help you stick to a budget and prepare items ahead of time. As you meal plan, consider on-site dining options or local restaurants you want to try while you are out exploring.

Camp Cooking Must-Haves

Regardless of which recipes you choose to cook, there are some camp cooking must-haves that all campers should have on-hand:

  • Cooking essentials: Pantry staples like seasoning blends, spices, dried herbs, cooking oils, salt and pepper, condiments and sauces will give your food flavor. Choose your essentials based on your meal plan. For example, if you plan to barbecue or grill meats, you may want to bring along barbecue rubs or sauce.
  • Snack items: Choose non-perishable snacks that travel well, like kettle corn or popcorn, jerky, trail mix, chips, pretzels, cereal, granola or s’mores ingredients.
  • Meal staples: Proteins, starches and carbs will help keep you full and energized. Popular camping meals usually involve potatoes, eggs, grilling meats, breakfast meats, fresh produce, sandwiches, canned beans and soups, and bottled water, juice and soft drinks.

Tips for Planning Your Meals

For easy meal planning, use these tips:

  • Consider dietary preferences: If you are camping with a group, consider everyone’s individual preferences and include vegetarian, pescatarian, vegan, dairy-free or gluten-free options if necessary.
  • Prep before you go: To save space and time at the campsite, prep what you can at home. Cut, core and de-seed fresh produce and mix up some omelet ingredients for an easy pour-and-cook breakfast.
  • Use storage containers: Plastic food storage containers and zip bags are great for storing pre-prepped meals and keeping them secure inside your cooler.
  • Choose multi-use ingredients: Choose recipes that utilize similar ingredients — like potatoes, a specific sauce or fresh veggies — to keep preparation simple and take up less space in your cooler or food storage container.
  • Include extras and snacks: You will likely be more active than usual, especially if you engage in any outdoor recreation. Plan for high-energy snacks and extra meals to keep you energized.

Find meal inspiration on the Peirhw camping recipe database, where you will find ideas for cooks of all experience levels and dietary preferences.

Camping guidelines all campers should follow

Whether hiking and camping in National Parks or overnighting in a private campground, we as travelers must do our best to preserve the locations we visit.

Some common guidelines that all campers should follow are as follows:

  • Always plan ahead
  • Always prepare
  • Camp and travel on durable surfaces such as rock, sand, gravel, and dry grasses
  • Always dispose of waste in proper containers or pack out all your waste
  • Leave your campsite the way you found it or better if possible
  • Minimize camp impact by camping on established campsites and walking only on trails
  • Be respectful of wildlife, and never fed or attempt to touch wild animals
  • Respect other campers and visitors

Following the unspoken rules of camping, including respecting both the natural environment and fellow travelers, will help ensure you not only have a great experience but that you will be playing your part in helping others enjoy a similar experience.

As we close this beginner's guide to camping we want to share a few additional guidelines, more of the “Dos and Don'ts” of camping:

Don’t be overly ambitious. If you step too far out of your comfort zone, you may end up having a disastrous experience and never gain the courage to give camping a second try. Keep it simple on your first trip. Maybe even camp out in your backyard for a night.

Do allow enough time to set up and breakdown camp. Arrive early to your camping destination with enough daylight to organize everything properly. On the flip side, no need to rush home on the final day. Enjoy the scenery and take in all that you can before returning to your normal daily grind.

Don’t expect the comforts of home. Some camping locations may lack the facilities you prefer. To avoid complaints and disappointment, try to be more positive. Think of practical solutions to make your camping experience an enjoyable one.

Do check the campsite policies and facilities. Never bring things that are not allowed into the campsite such as alcohol or pets, and don’t build a fire if it is prohibited.

Don't keep busy with your smartphone. Our attachment to our tech devices should be left at home. You come out to nature to get away from it all. Leave the phone in the car and put it on silent or turn it off.

Do explore the area and take advantage of the natural resources nearby. Turnover logs and look for critters, skip stones in the lake, climb a tree, or bushwhack up the mountain. Let the adventurer in you come out!

FAQ

What is the Golden Rule of Camping?

The golden rule of camping is "Leave No Trace." This principle encourages campers to minimize their impact on the environment, ensuring that natural spaces remain pristine for future generations. Key practices include packing out all trash, minimizing campfire impact, respecting wildlife, and leaving natural objects and plants undisturbed. By following the Leave No Trace principles, campers not only protect the environment but also preserve the beauty and integrity of the natural world.

What Do I Need to Know Before Camping for the First Time?

Before embarking on your first camping trip, it's essential to be well-prepared and informed. Start by selecting a suitable campsite, preferably one with amenities like restrooms and potable water if you're a beginner. Research the area, including its weather patterns, local wildlife, and any regulations or permits required. Pack appropriate gear, such as a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking equipment, and ensure you have suitable clothing for various weather conditions. Learn basic outdoor skills, like setting up a tent, starting a campfire safely, and first aid.

What Are the Four Most Important Things to Take Camping?

When heading out for a camping trip, there are four essential items you should always bring to ensure safety and comfort:

  • Shelter: A reliable tent that suits the weather conditions and the number of campers. Don’t forget a ground tarp for added protection.
  • Sleeping Gear: A quality sleeping bag appropriate for the expected temperatures, and a sleeping pad for insulation and comfort.
  • Food and Water: Sufficient food supplies and a portable stove or camping cookware. Also, bring ample water or a water purification system.
  • Safety and Navigation Tools: A first aid kit, a multi-tool or knife, a map and compass or GPS device, and a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.

These essentials cover your basic needs for shelter, warmth, nourishment, and safety, ensuring a successful and enjoyable camping experience.

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