Camping is a great way to get back to nature and enjoy the great outdoors. But it can also be a lot of work, especially if you're not prepared.
Read on for 19 camping hacks that will make your next trip easier, more relaxed and more fun!
The more often you go camping, the more you'll start to pick up a few hacks to make your campground life a little bit easier.
Whether it's extra things to bring, how to pack smarter or the best equipment to buy, campers learn from each other and share helpful knowledge.
Here are some of the best tips we've heard from fellow camping fans that will not only make your life easier but help you camp smarter and, quite frankly, look like a total genius at the campground!
Scroll down for our pro camper tips and hacks...
Here are some of our favourite camping hacks that will make your life easier:
1. Pack a tarp or two
An inexpensive tarp doesn't take up a lot of room when you roll it up, but its uses are so numerous that you should be sure to have one or two in your kit.
You can use a tarp while camping to:
- Set up a makeshift tent
- Collect rainwater
- Create a windbreak
- Cover your firewood to keep it dry
- Carry gear or firewood
- Prevent your sleeping bag from getting wet
2. Freeze food before packing
This tip is especially helpful if you're going camping in warm weather.
Frozen food will help keep your cooler cold and make the food in it last a lot longer.
Check out our guide to What to Cook on a Self-Catering Holiday for more ideas.
3. Make a DIY hand-washing station
You can never have too many places to wash your hands when you're camping.
Fill a large container with water and add a little liquid soap.
Place it near your cooking area so you can wash your hands before you eat.
Handily, this doubles up as a safety measure too!
4. Use dryer sheets to repel pests
Did you know that dryer sheets can be used for more than just keeping your clothes static-free?
You can also use them to repel insects.
Just tuck a dryer sheet into your pocket or clip one to your belt loop and you'll be mosquito-free.
You can also place them at the entrance to your tent or RV to repel insects or around your space to keep mice away.
5. Pack condiment packets to save space
Instead of wasting space with full-sized condiment bottles, collect those little individual sachets when you eat out or get take out.
Just be sure to dispose of the packaging properly when you're done, both the paper and plastic kind can be recycled.
6. Invest in a headlamp
You'll be so glad you have a headlamp when you need to get up in the middle of the night to use the restroom or take a midnight stroll.
You can also use it for tasks like reading or cooking if you need to.
7. Use baby wipes for everything
Baby wipes are great for cleaning up cooking messes, washing yourself and wiping down your camping gear.
You can use them to wipe down dirty surfaces, clean your hands, and even wash your face.
They're also great for removing makeup, if you feel the need to wear any while you're camping!
8. Hang a string of lights in your tent
If you want to add a little ambiance to your tent, try hanging up some string lights.
These battery-operated lights are specifically designed for camping.
Just be sure not to use anything with an open flame in your tent.
9. Stay warm with a hot water bottle
If you get cold at night, fill a hot water bottle with boiling water and take it to bed with you.
It'll stay warm for hours and help you get a good night's sleep.
We love this large 2L hot water bottle.
Remember to take plenty of blankets to pile on your sleeping bag in colder weather too.
10. Use an empty coffee can for your trash
Keep your campsite clean by using an empty coffee can as a makeshift garbage can.
Just be sure to empty it regularly so it doesn't attract pests.
11. Enlist the kids to help
Kids can help with a lot of simple tasks around the campsite, like:
- Setting up camp furniture
- Gathering kindling
- Carrying gear
- Hanging up lights
- Fetching water
It feels great to them to help out and when everyone pitches in, there's more time for fun and relaxation, too.
More camping with kids tips in our How to Plan a Successful Family Camping Trip guide.
Keep kids occupied with this camping games pack or free camping bingo game.
12. Use laundry baskets to carry gear and firewood
Sturdy laundry baskets are great for carrying gear from your car to your campsite.
They're easy to carry and have plenty of room for all your stuff.
They're also helpful for carrying firewood when you've set up camp and want to get cooking.
13. Get quality tent pegs
Tents always come with pegs for securing them to the ground, but they're often flimsy and not very effective.
For a sturdier option, invest in some quality tent pegs that are more sturdy and secure.
They'll make a big difference to how well your tent holds up in windy or difficult conditions.
14. Pre-cut vegetables for easy meal prep
One of the most challenging things about camping is trying to cook meals with limited resources.
To make things easier, pre-cut all your vegetables before you leave home and store them in ziploc bags.
That way, all you have to do is add them to your pot or pan and they're ready to cook.
More self catering meal tips!
15. Hang up a clothesline
A clothesline is a great way to air out your wet towels and bathing suits or dry hiking socks.
You can even use it to dry your dishes if you don't have access to a dish rack.
Just be sure to secure it properly so it doesn't blow away in the wind!
16. Make your own fire starters
You can easily make your own fire starters with just a couple of household items.
All you need is some lint and recycled paper roll tubes.
Just roll the lint into a ball and shove it into the paper tube, you're good to go.
17. Bring a solar charger
If you want to be able to use your electronic devices while camping, invest in a solar charger.
They're great for charging phones, tablets, and other small devices.
Just be sure to test it out before you leave so you know how it works.
18. Use a shoe organizer for small items
Hang a shoe organizer on the inside of your tent to keep small items like flashlights, sunscreen, and insect repellent within reach.
It's also a great place to store snacks so they don't attract pests.
19. Bring a first-aid kit
Be prepared for minor injuries by packing a first-aid kit.
It should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief medication.
For more serious injuries, you should also have a list of emergency phone numbers.
Camping can be a lot of fun, but it's also important to be prepared for emergencies.
Make sure you have a first-aid kit, know your limits, and dress in layers.
Be respectful of wildlife and leave no trace when you leave.
Most importantly, have fun!
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