With spring and summer on the way, it’s finally time to dust off the camping gear and get back to the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a total newbie, there are some common camping mistakes that can turn your outdoor escape into a damp, disorganised disaster.
We’re here to help you avoid those common mistakes with tips that will have you packing smarter, pitching better and camping like a pro!
Choosing the wrong tent
Choosing the right tent is key to a comfortable camping experience. While you don’t need a massive tent, you also don’t want to feel cramped. A tent that’s too small can leave you struggling for space, so its always a good idea to go a size up – if you’re camping for two, consider a three-person tent for extra room.
When you’re choosing your tent, here a few things to consider:
Do you need separate bedrooms?
Will you need a living space or a porch?
Where do you plan to store your items e.g. clothing, chairs, and cooking equipment?
Will you need space for wet clothes or muddy boots?
Keep the weather in mind too. A lightweight festival tent might not be durable enough to handle stormy weather in the Lake District. And just before you head out, be sure to set up your tent at home to check how it all works.
This gives you a chance to air the tent out, getting rid musty smells or dampness if it’s been packed away all winter. If your tent is a bit older, re-proofing it to maintain its waterproofing capabilities is always a good idea.
There’s no worse time to figure out how your tent goes together than when you’re already at the campsite. For a range of tents to suit every type of camper, check out Halfords’ selection and find the perfect fit for your next trip.
Not preparing for the weather
The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be ready for anything. Always check the forecast before you leave and pack for all possibilities. Even on a warm summer’s day, the weather can change quickly, temperatures drop at night and rain can show up out of nowhere.
Layering your clothing is great way to stay comfortable as conditions change. And remember, waterproof gear is a must-have. There’s nothing worse than waking up to a soggy sleeping bag, so make sure you’re properly equipped to stay dry and warm.
Failing to test or maintain equipment
A poorly pitched or broken tent, missing cooking gear, or a failing torch can quickly turn a fun camping trip into a frustrating one. To avoid any last-minute disasters, check your tent and test everything in advance, realising you’re missing crucial parts when it’s already getting dark is never a good time.
And always pack spares – extra tent pegs, batteries, and a repair kit can be lifesavers if the unexpected happens.
Research your campsite
Before you hit the road, take the time to research your campsite. What is the campsite like? What facilities do they offer, and what are their rules? It’s important to know if there are any restrictions, such as not allowing campfires, BBQs or certain types of cooking equipment.
Having a good understanding of your campsite will save you from any unpleasant surprises upon arrival.
Arriving late or setting up in the dark
Getting to your campsite early means you can find the perfect spot and set up with ease rather than scrambling around in the dark. To make sure you arrive in good time, plan your journey in advance, factoring in traffic and any planned stops along the way.
The earlier you arrive, the better, more daylight means less stress when pitching your tent. And when it comes to choosing your pitch, go for flat ground. This will make your tent set up a lot easier and ensure a better night’s sleep.
Not pegging down or setting up correctly
A good tent setup is essential for staying comfortable and secure. If your tent isn’t pegged down properly, you can end up with your tent coming down on a windy night. Use all the pegs and guy ropes that come with your tent, they’re there for a reason! Be sure to angle the pegs at about 45 degrees for the best hold.
Also, take the wind into account when you pitch, and position your tent so it’s sheltered from any strong winds that may be headed your way.
Lack of proper lighting
Forgetting proper lighting is a common mistake that can make everything from cooking to finding the bathroom a whole lot harder. To avoid fumbling around in the dark, head torches are a game-changer, giving you hands free lighting, so you can easily move around your campsite without hassle.
Lanterns not only create a cosy atmosphere but also help you find your way back to your tent after a late-night wander. Make sure you’re never left in the dark, Halfords has a great range of lighting options to brighten up your campsite.
Poor meal planning & storage
A little planning goes a long way when it comes to meals. Make sure you pack only what you need and avoid overloading yourself with unnecessary food. Having a well-stocked cool box is essential for keeping food fresh and drinks cold, especially if the weather’s warm.
Be sure to always cook in an open space, cooking indoors is a potential fire hazard and could cause carbon monoxide to build up. By getting outdoors when it’s time to cook, you will not get have fresh air but have plenty of room.
Keep your food fresh and drinks cold with a reliable cool box, check out our full range of electrical and non-electrical cool boxes.
Ready for your next adventure?
Camping is all about embracing the outdoors, making great memories and avoiding unnecessary stress. With a bit of planning and the right gear, you can sidestep these common mistakes and focus on enjoying the great outdoors.
Need camping essentials? From cool boxes and sleeping bags to tents and lanterns, we’ve got you covered with everything you need for a smooth trip. Check out our full camping range here and get ready to pitch up relax and enjoy the adventure.
