Gear up for adventure: your ultimate camping guide
Camping checklist
Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility with our ultimate camping checklist. From starlit nights under canvas to cosy campfires and breathtaking scenery, we'll equip you with everything you need for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. From tents and sleeping bags to torches and camping cookware, here are all the essentials to make your trip enjoyable. Ready to say hello to fun and fresh air?
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Camping checklist
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Choosing the best tent for you
Tent size and shape are the most important factors when choosing a new tent. Think about how many people will be using it and how much room you need. Need a little extra space for storage? Look for tents with handy storage pockets and communal areas - perfect for hanging out or keeping your equipment. Quick tip - when choosing your tent size, always opt for the next size up. So if there's 2 of you, go for a 3-person tent. It's always nice to have an extra bit of room to stretch out.
Tent types
Choosing the right tent makes camping easier. Dome tents are great for windy locations, tunnel tents give you extra space, and pop‑up tents are perfect for quick getaways. Whatever your adventure, there’s a tent style to match it.
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Tunnel tents
Ideal for: Families and larger groups.
Tunnel tents or cabin tents are long and spacious, often with separate living and sleeping areas. With plenty of storage and communal space, these tents are perfect home-away-from-home for big groups out on backpacking or trekking trips or family camping trips.
Pop up tents
Ideal for: First time campers and smaller groups.
The main benefit of pop-up tents is that they require minimal assembly, literally popping up into shape. They’re best for new campers, kids and small groups looking for a quick getaway.
Dome tents
Ideal for: Seasoned backpackers, solo campers or small groups.
Dome tents are sturdy and weather resistant - ideal for windy and mountainous camping sites. They tend to have just one room, making them ideal for couples and smaller groups.
Teepee tents
Ideal for: Solo travellers and large groups or families alike.
From festival camping to countryside trips, classic teepee tents are extremely versatile. Their coned structure is supported by a single pole in the middle creating a feeling of space and height.
Inflatable tents
Ideal for: Frequent and new campers alike.
Quick to set up and sturdy - inflatable tents are ideal for road trips and longer backpacking camps. While they are easier to transport and pitch, be sure to pack an air pump for setting them up.
Tents by size
The perfect tent size can make your trip memorable. A 2‑person tent suits solo campers or light‑packing couples, while 4‑5 person tents are ideal for families. Bigger groups can go for 8‑person tents with roomy living areas. So pick the size that gives you the comfort and space you need.
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4-5 person tents
Explore tents with living room or communal spaces for a group of 4 to 5 people camping.
6-8 person tents
Explore extra large tents with multiple cabins -suitable for larger groups of 6 to 8 people.
Top tents for camping
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Choosing a sleeping bag
Sleeping bag guide
Wondering which is the best sleeping bag for your camping trip? Here's a quick guide:
Types of sleeping bag
- Envelope sleeping bags tend to be more spacious than mummy sleeping bags. With a zip that goes all the way around, these can be used as blanket too.
- Mummy sleeping bags are slim in design, keeping you cosily encased. They are usually just for one person and good at retaining heat.
Sleeping bag temperature suitability
- Warm or mild weather sleeping bags are thinner and best suited for indoors or during summers. Best for temperatures above 10 to 15 degrees.
- Cold or cool weather sleeping bags are best for autumn and winter months - ideal for temperatures under 10 degrees.
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Other camping essentials
It’s the little things that make camping feel like home. From cosy sleeping bags to cooking essentials work through your camping essentials list and stay prepared for a smooth, enjoyable trip.
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Sleeping bags and campbeds
Sleep well in the wilderness. Choose from a range of air mattresses, camping beds, and sleeping bags. Keep an air pump handy for inflatable beds.
Camping chairs and tables
Sit comfortably wherever you are, with an inflatable or a folding chair. And don't forget a camping table to prep your food on, eat dinner or play cards.
Cooking essentials
Prep a meal outdoors with a camping stove and cooker or portable BBQ. Remember to pick up a travel kettle, mug, and a flask for hot drinks on the go.
Torches and lanterns
Keep it safe and bright with camping lights. Torches and lanterns are easy to carry, while headlamps come in handy when you want to go hands-free.
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Camping gazebos
Explore easy to set-up, all-weather gazebos for added shelter to your camp area.
Camping accessories
From camping rucksacks and extra tent pegs to pet travel essentials and more, get all camping accessories to complete your camping kit.
Help getting there
Make your journey smooth with Sat Navs, roof racks and other travel essentials.
Power banks and speakers
Keep your gadgets charged with a power bank, and groove into the right mood with a portable speaker.
Festival camping tips
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Don’t forget your tickets!
Make sure to keep your etickets ready to avoid the last minute email hunt. Keep your physical tickets, IDs, cash and cards in a compact cross body bag, close to you.
Turn up early
Beat the traffic and give yourself extra time to enjoy your trip. An early arrival means skipping the long security queue and a better chance to get that prime camping spot.
Find the best spot
The ideal spot is near the loos, but not too close to smell them. Avoid paths (and noisy commuters) and aim for a landmark, or create a unique flag, to easily find your way back.
Keep your valuables safe
Avoid locking your tent so it doesn't look like something valuable's inside. When out and about, keep your essentials with you in secure pockets or small bags.
Other festival essentials
Festival life is easier with the right gear. Think rucksacks and bags to keep your essentials close, water bottles to keep you hydrated, and torches to navigate in the dark. Not only that, blankets, weather‑ready clothing, and festival trolleys can help you make the whole weekend more comfortable.
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Rucksacks and bags
Crank up the comfort with lightweight camping rucksacks. Go for bags with multiple pockets and side zippers to store and find your clothes, meds, makeup, gadgets and gizmos easily. Check for thicker straps and weather resistant qualities, too.
Water bottles, carriers, flasks & mugs
Keep your drinks hot and yourself hydrated. Water carriers are a great way to store water near you. And, flasks and travel mugs help you sip that cuppa while it's piping hot.
Torches
Save your phone's battery for capturing memories. A torch can be useful when you are getting back to your tent in the dark, finding your stuff in the bag or when you want to use the bathroom at night.
Blankets
Have blankets at the ready for when the weather takes a chilly turn. Or use them to lie down on when you've found the perfect spot for stargazing.
Clothing
Shorts and sunnies, or rain macs and wellies. Be prepared for unpredictable weather. Or stand out from the crowd with a fancy dress costume.
Festival carts & trolleys
Move around with ease. From tents and rucksacks, to supplies and more. A festival cart or trolley is super handy for carrying your camping gear.
FAQs
What is the best way to find campsites and caravan parks?
There are multiple apps and websites for browsing the best campsites near you. You can find one by campsite name, town, or even postcode.
What is the most forgotten item when camping?
The most commonly forgotten camping essentials are often the most handy ones such as bin liners, bug repellents, bottle openers, and extra batteries or charging cables. It's best to create a list for these essentials for a last minute check.
What do I need for camping as a beginner?
If you are a first-time camper or a beginner, make sure to pack weather appropriate core amping gear such as sleeping bag, clothing, tents etc., An easy-to-pitch or pop up tent is an ideal choice for a beginner to keep the trip hassle free.
Can I machine wash my sleeping bag?
While some of the sleeping bags are machine washable some are not. Make sure to follow the specific care instructions based on it's material typically marked on it's label.
What are some tips for cooking while camping?
Make it super easy to cook on your camping trips by prepping meals at home. Choosing easy meals that require less utensils can also save a lot of time and effort, allowing you to enjoy your trip.
What is the golden rule of camping?
The golden rule of camping is simple: leave no trace. It means respecting nature, cleaning up after yourself and keeping the campsite exactly as you found it. It’s the best way to protect the outdoors so everyone can enjoy their future camping adventures.
How to stay safe at a campsite?
- Staying safe at the campsite is all about being prepared and paying attention to your surroundings.
- Choose a clear, level pitch away from hazards like waterlogged ground or overhanging branches.
- Always keep your cooking gear well away from your tent to avoid fire risks.
- Store your food securely.
- Keep a torch and first‑aid kit handy.
- Follow any safety guidance provided by the campsite.
- If you’d like more detailed camping safety tips, you can visit this page for extra guidance.
Should I check if a campsite has electric hook‑up (EHU) before planning my trip?
Yes, checking the electric hook‑up in advance helps you avoid surprises and ensures you bring the right equipment. Campsites vary widely: some offer full electrical service, others only have limited hook‑up points, and many basic or wild sites have none at all. Confirming availability, connection type, distance from the pitch, and any power limits can help you plan and pack appropriately.
