This list might help you make sure you are not without the essential equipment. You may not need everything, but it is a good place to start. Equipment List
The basics are: Something to sleep in - tent Something to sleep on - airbed, self infalting mat, camp bed Something to sleep under - sleeping bag, duvet Something to cook on - suitcase stove, 2 burner stove and grill, BBQ Something to cook with - pots, pans, utensils, cool box Something to eat with - plate, bowl, cup, cutlery Something to sit on/at - folding table and chair Something to see where you're going - torch, lantern
Nice things to have but not essential: EHU (electric hook up cable) Fridge Heater Light Tent carpet Utility tent Tent canopy Porta Potti Wardrobe Kitchen stand
Camping is a very personal thing - I like my home comforts so tend to "glamp" quite a lot whereas other people are equally comfortable and happy to be the next Bear Ghylls!!
Also remember to take a bin bag, loo roll, kitchen paper and we find antibacterial kitchen wipes really handy too to keep the table clean (and are also useful if the facilities are not as clean as they should be!).
Crocs are a great idea as mentioned previously - I also find taking a pair of shorts and a simple t-shirt makes dressing after a shower much easier as space is often limited and floors are wet. I then get dressed fully when I get back to the tent. If you use a hairdryer, take a few 20p pieces as they are often needed.
Food wise, we often make a chilli or bolognese before we leave, put it in freezer bags and then we have a quick, tasty meal to simply heat up when we arrive. You could also freeze it to eat the following day help keep the cool-box cold.
There is so much you could buy - I suggest you buy just the basics to start with, and then decide what you feel you need on future trips; you may like to keep it basic or you might want carpets, big chairs, extensions etc. We started out with a great tent and not much else, but after gradually adding to our equipment now we have a car-full of stuff!
Hi Paul and Ann, don't forget a piece of plastic sheeting (or a Footprint) groundsheet for under your tent. This will keep the ground sheet, (especially if it's a sewn in one) clean, so that when you pack up you won't get the tent muddy.
Also a couple of picnic blankets for under the beds to keep the cold from coming up.
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
Topic: Camping for the first time
