Camping Tips and Tricks!

Camping has always had a bit of a soft spot in my heart.
It's just something I've always loved and have been doing for years and years on end.

I know my first camp was apparently when I was 6 months old, and according to my parents, it was an absolute disaster. The rain would not stop, so they were constantly changing my clothes so I could stay warm, and when my cot was floating inside the tent, I think they figured it was time to call it quits. So from what I can gather, Mum and I had a pretty great weekend at home.

The earliest camp I do remember though, is when I was about 4? 6 maybe? My friend and I were sitting at the top of the hill making fake campfires and pretending to cook marshmallows. Or when my parents and I were floating down a river in aquaducks. That day was the first time I ever saw a cow... I swear to god it was the scariest thing I've ever seen!

I remember so many of my camps and each time I learn something new. What worked, what didn't etc. So over the years, I've managed to pick up a few tips and tricks to help everyone out.

1. Don't pack too much, but don't pack too little either. Pack according to the weather and what you will need. Always bring a raincoat. 
2. Test your gear before you leave. e.g. If you've borrowed a tent or if you haven't used your tent in a while, set it up and check that everything is in working order. Correct amount of pegs, poles. Make sure poles are not broken and be sure to look for any holes in your tent.
3. Check if there are any fire-bans before you leave.
4. Always wear sensible shoes. You'll regret the times you don't.
5. Never. Ever. Forget sunscreen or insect repellent.
6. Use solar lights or glow sticks to mark guy-ropes to prevent injuries in the night.
7. Easy fire starters with materials from home: Cut up an egg carton into sections with a cotton ball in each one. When you're ready to light, wipe the cotton ball in vaseline and light the whole thing with a match.
8. Restock your first-aid kit as soon as you get home! This way you know you don't have to check it before you leave next time. 
9. If your first aid kit isn't water proof, put it in a zip lock bag.
10. Try to set your camp up early while you still have daylight! 
11. Clear out rocks and sticks from the area where you're going to pitch your tent. And avoid setting your tent up underneath a tree. 
12. Pick a spot with preferably flat ground. If there is a slope, sleep with your feet going downhill.
13. Always prepare for rain!
14. Sleeping bags work better with limited clothing. There's a whole bunch of science to it, and I know camping can be cold, but trust me it works wonders! Also don't sleep in a sleeping bag with socks on!
15. Make sure your tent is dry and clean when you leave, if not hang it out and air it when you get home. The clothes line works well. Make sure to sweep out the inside of your tent with a dustpan and broom. 

My last tip is to try and space yourself from electronics.
When I manage to find time for camping amongst school and exams, I try to use it as a time to relax, explore nature, and pretty much to reset my body clock.
I do keep my phone on me most of the time for photos and safety. However, I try not to use it as much.

If you think that I have missed any important tips for camping, let me know!
Happy Camping!