Camping Tips
Camping can be a great way to see beautiful areas right across the UK; it is also a cheap and fun way to spend time with family and friends. Millions of people each year choose to “rough it” at festivals, in holiday parks and at dedicated camping sites. There are tips that you should take in to account when going camping, keeping these tips in mind will improve your camping experience.
Checklist
One thing you do not want to do is arrive at your campsite having forgot some important items such as a toothbrush or toilet roll. Draw up a checklist with all the items that you need for your trip and tick each one off the list once it has been packed.
Practice
Knowing how to erect your tent before you go camping can save you time when you reach the campsite. Put the tent up on a practice run in your garden to make sure that everything is fine and that no pieces are missing.
Protecting the tent
If camping on rough ground it is wise to use a durable sheet of plastic to provide protection to the groundsheet, also make sure to clear the area of any sticks or rocks as these may cause damage to the tent (as-well as being uncomfortable!). Any dirt should be removed after use using a brush and/or warm water, you should be careful not to use soap as it may damage the fabric.
Spares
You should always carry spares for your tent in case of emergencies. Tent pegs can easily bend, break or become lost; it is advisable to carry five or six in case they are needed. The same should be done with guy lines which can easily snap. Tent repair kits containing a piece of fabric and a silicone sealant can be handy for repairing rips or holes in the tent, shops at camping sites and holiday parks where you are staying may sell these kits. A roll of duck- tape is also a handy piece of equipment to have on hand.
Pitching the tent
When pitching the tent it is wise to take into account the wind. Pitch the tent at an angle that will allow the tents design to deflect the wind away; having the door of the tent facing away from the wind will prevent gusts of wind lifting the tent or rain being blown in. If you are planning on pitching the tent near to a river it is advisable to take note of the rising water levels, avoiding flat ground is recommended as it will become easily waterlogged. If you are camping on a dedicated campsite then be vary of pitching too close to toilets and showers.