12 Camping Hacks That Make Living Outdoors A Breeze

Choosing a destination is the first step, as campsites have different levels of amenities and this determines what you’ll need to bring.

Booking is always recommended during peak periods.

Holiday parks are ideal for first timers, as they normally have hot showers, gas barbecues and the option of powered or unpowered sites.

National parks offer beautiful natural attractions and fun activities, but usually have fewer facilities.

Bush campsites normally don’t have any amenities, so you’ll need to bring everything with you.

For occasional campers, a dome tent is ideal.

They’re affordable, easy to set up and pack away, and don’t take up much car space.

If you’re a keen camper with a big family, consider a camper trailer.

They feature a large tent, cooking facilities and storage, but you’ll need to tow it and they may be too big for some campsites.

A campervan or caravan is ideal for taking the luxuries of home with you.

Well equipped with proper beds, they’re the most expensive option, but you can rent one to try the lifestyle.

Sitting around the campfire is a quintessential camping experience, but fires have risks and shouldn’t be treated lightly.

Pay attention to fire danger signs and don’t light up on hot, windy days.

Never light a fire if a ban is in place.

Keep campfires well clear of tents and equipment, and have a bucket of water nearby in case the fire accidentally spreads.

Before you leave the campsite, ensure your campfire is completely extinguished by thoroughly dousing any hot coals with water.

Leaving excess moisture on the tent fabric when packing it up will cause mould or mildew, leading to unpleasant smells and stains.

Bring a towel to wipe down the tent fabric before packing it away.

Animals can be more dextrous than you think, and those that live near campsites may have learned how to find their way into food boxes.

Secure the lid with a bungee cord to keep out unwanted intruders.

Pack essentials like tea, coffee, sugar, salt, oil, long-life food, cups, plates and cutlery into a clear box, using compartments to keep it tidy.

Replenish the box after every trip so it’s stocked and ready for next time.

To save time at the campsite and make packing easier, chop vegetables in advance and pack them in plastic containers.

This also prevents food from becoming waterlogged in the cooler as the ice melts.

Freeze water bottles the night before and use them as ice bricks in your cooler.

The solid bricks keep the interior cool for longer, and when the ice melts you can drink the cold water.

Many campsites don’t allow firewood collection, and even if it’s permitted, at popular sites good fuel can be hard to find.

Bundle logs and kindling at home when you’re tidying up green waste and set them aside to dry so you’ll always have a supply at hand.

Peg down a piece of shade cloth to create a comfortable, dirt-free area in front of the tent. Pack a doormat and wipe your feet before entering to keep the tent clean inside.