Planning your first camping or caravanning trip? Or maybe you’re a seasoned camper looking for fresh tips? Either way, we’ve got you covered! We asked our fantastic camping community to share their best camping tips & advice, and they delivered—some practical, some hilarious, and all worth considering.
Let’s dive into the golden rules of camping, from first-time essentials to the kind of wisdom that only comes with experience (and a few camping mishaps).
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New to camping? Start with a short trip close to home. The advice from many campers, including Colin McL and Maurice L, is to test your gear on a weekend getaway, 15–30 minutes away. That way, if you forget something, it’s an easy fix. Also, expect mistakes. Kaye S says, “Experience is everything. Make mistakes and lots of them. They’re the best way to learn.”
Avoid overpacking—take what you need and leave the rest. Leanne S, Matthew J, and Margie B recommend packing light, while Margie also suggests extra rope, tarps, and towels—they always come in handy!
Most importantly, don’t overthink it. Dave P, Alan T, and Leah S all agree: “You’re not at home—relax and enjoy the adventure!”
The top camping tip on packing? A checklist is a game-changer. Carol C, Michelle W, and Sue S swear by keeping a digital or laminated packing checklist to avoid forgotten essentials.
Some must-haves:
✔ Toilet paper (Michelle W, Mick Gaffney)
✔ Screw pegs and a drill for tough ground (Natalie N)
✔ Nappie wipes (Mark L)—they clean everything
✔ A UHF radio (Nige D)—“It will save your marriage!”
✔ Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements (David T)—“Blow-up mattresses aren’t real beds. If you need good sleep, invest in something comfortable.”
Above all, don’t overpack. The more you bring, the more you have to clean up. Leanne S and Matthew J put it best: “Pack less—you’ll thank yourself later.”
If you’re towing, safety is key. Craig P.E, Peter S, and Paul G stress checking lights, brakes, hitches, and tire pressure before heading off.
A towing course is highly recommended by Yolanda S, who says it “gives confidence and could save your life.”
One piece of cryptic wisdom comes from Paul G: “Stick to the road and don’t look at the moon.” What does it mean? Who knows—but better safe than sorry!
Download our National Towing Guide to help you Tow like a Pro!
And if you need help? Ask! Justine R reminds us: “Most campers will lend a hand—don’t be afraid to ask.”
For Camping Etiquette Tips, Check out our Guide here.
This one splits the camping community.
On Team Relax First, Geoff H and Stuart B insist: “Unpack a chair, crack a cold one, THEN set up camp.”
But Team Practical, led by Luke M, Terry P, and Tameeka U, argues: “If you start drinking first, you’ll wake up in a half-set-up mess.”
And then there’s Peter T, keeping it simple: “Just don’t forget the tent.”
Compromise? Take a sip, then set up camp before finishing the drink. Best of both worlds.
Sue C: “Just go.”
Philip B: “It’s the journey, not the destination.”
Michelle W: “NEVER forget the toilet paper.”
Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned road tripper, the best camping advice is to embrace the adventure. You’ll make mistakes, forget things, and probably get rained on at least once—but that’s all part of the fun.
As Susan D wisely puts it:
“Enjoy life. Get away, see our beautiful country whenever you can. No one is promised tomorrow.”
Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or in our monthly newsletter! Share your best camping advice and funniest stories. Let’s help more people experience the magic of the great outdoors.
Looking for inspiration for you next adventure? Find fantastic caravan parks with each state association!
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