As we head into Australia’s warmer months, a camping getaway is on many of our minds. Time in nature away from our busy lives, technology and the city is a great way to relax and recharge.
Whether you are just starting out and want to get a taste of the outdoors, or have been camping for years, these tips will help to make your next adventure a success.
Bring Some Snacks
While many of us expect great forest feasts from a roaring fire – often nature has other ideas. Weather or equipment failure may delay your cooking efforts and a quick replacement is required. Great options for camping include:
- Granola/Nut Bars
- Peanut Butter
- Beef Jerky
- Canned Beans, Soups etc.
- Trail Mix
- Drink Powders and Supplements
- Coffee and Tea
They’re perfect options for packing light, won’t spoil and don’t require cooking.
Research Your Camping Location
Camping is supposed to be relaxing and fun, but being unprepared for the challenge can sour your experience quickly! Read up on where you are going, conditions, weather and facilities (water, toilets, campsites).
Furthermore, don’t arrive at the location too late. The campground of your choice may be taken, forcing your group to seek out another. And no one likes setting up a tent in the dark!
Don’t Leave Food And Rubbish Accessible To Animals
When night falls on the campsite, so too can unwanted visitors searching for food. Bugs, Possums, Foxes, Kangaroos and other critters will get into your food and leave rubbish strewn across the campsite if left in the open. Always lock up your food AND garbage in boxes/bags that animals will not be able to access to avoid waking up to a nasty surprise!
Here are some further tips to keep your campsite clean.
Save Space By Using Collapsible Camping Gear
A useful tip for those travelling with a large group or little luggage space, invest in some quality collapsible gear to save space on the trip. You can get everything from kettles and washing up bowls to cups, storage baskets and lights that will fold up, saving space in your car while making packing up a little easier!
Don’t Forget Your First-Aid Equipment
The safety of your group is the biggest priority when camping. At a minimum you’ll want to bring:
- A well-stocked first-aid kit
- Blister cream
- Bug repellent and bite relief ointment/cream
- Sunscreen
- Any other personal medications
Learn more about what sunscreen is the most effective here.
Stay Focused On Your Fire
A safety tip that’s particularly prudent in our warm Australian months – always keep an eye on your fire. Never leave it unattended. Be sure to completely extinguish the fire using water or sand whenever turning in or leaving the campsite. Check out this guide on safe methods to extinguish a fire.
Take Advantage Of Campsite Amenities
Different sites offer varying amenities – knowing what your chosen location offers can make the experience significantly easier. Some common amenities include:
- Level ground to pitch your tent
- Picnic tables
- Water spouts
- Fire pits
Some locations even offer:
- Hot showers
- Clean restrooms
- WiFi
Don’t Sleep Directly On The Floor
Much of the cold experienced when camping comes from the ground – if you’re camping in a chillier location, you won’t want to sleep directly on the floor. A thick sleeping mat, air mattress, swag or hammock can provide great insulation while keeping you off the cold floor.
Nothing’s worse than a chilly, sleepless night while camping!
Freeze Food and Drink Before Putting It In The Cooler
Many cheap coolers will only keep food and drink cold for ~8 hours, if you’re intending to camp for several days you may want to invest in a more high-end cool box.
To extend the life of your food and drinks, freeze what you can and keep the rest chilled – this will help to keep the cooler at a low temperature.
Furthermore, always keep in mind that the fuller your cooler is, the more effectively it will keep the contents cold!
Keep Your Campsite Clean
Throw away any rubbish (which may involve bringing it home with you). Make sure the fire is out. Pack your gear away. Don’t forget your tent pegs!
Always leave the campsite as you found it. We love the outdoors, and by keeping it clean we can all continue to enjoy it for years to come!
Hopefully these tips have encouraged you to plan your next camping trip! Let us know if you have any camping advice of your own.
