Top 10 Must-Know Camping Hacks for Newbies

1. Choose the Right Camping Spot

Before hitting the road, do some research and pick a camping spot that suits your needs. Look at the weather forecast and make sure the location has restrooms, fire pits, and access to trails.

2. Keep the Bugs at Bay

Bugs are usually part of the camping experience, but they can easily become a nuisance. Bring insect repellants, citronella candles, and make sure you close your tent to keep them out.

3. Bring a Tarp

A tarp can serve many purposes – it can protect you from the rain, provide an extra layer of insulation, or transform into a makeshift shelter to cook your food.

4. Use Ziploc Bags

Ziploc bags can do wonders when it comes to organizing your camping gear. Use them to store snacks, clothes, fire-starting materials, and even your phone and camera.

5. Make a DIY Water Filter

If you don’t want to carry too much water with you, you can create a simple water filter by filling a plastic bottle with layers of sand, charcoal, and rocks.

6. Build a Raised Fire Pit

If the campsite doesn’t have a fire pit, you can create your own by surrounding a designated area with rocks. This will make sure you don’t cause accidental wildfires and prevent you from burning the ground.

7. Bring a Headlamp

Flashlights are great, but a headlamp keeps your hands-free for cooking and setting up camp. They’re compact, lightweight, and allow you to see in the dark with ease.

8. DIY Lanterns with Jugs of Water and Headlights

If you don’t want to carry a bulky lantern, you can turn your headlamp into one by hanging it from a gallon jug of water. The jug will act as a diffuser, creating soft ambient light.

9. Plan Your Meals

Knowing what you’re going to eat beforehand will save you time, money, and ensure you have everything you need. Bring a camping stove or a portable grill, and decide on easy-to-make meals.

10. Respect Nature

Camping is all about enjoying the outdoors, but that doesn’t mean you should harm or damage it. Respect the wildlife, trees, and waters, and make sure you leave no trace when you leave.