So, you’ve decided to venture out on your first camping trip.

This can be both an exciting yet daunting experience, as you may have many unanswered questions in your head on what to expect, what you need, and where to go.

The Winfields Outdoors blog offers a vast range of guides, along with helpful advice and tips on all things camping, making it easier than ever to help you get the most out of any camping adventure.

Additional advice is all well and good if you’re a seasoned camper, but what if this is the first time you’ve considered taking an outdoor holiday?

Read on to discover our 10 top tips for first-time campers…

Failing to prepare is preparing to fail

Getting everything ready to go on your first camping trip can be an exhilarating experience, especially if you’ve never been on an outdoor holiday before. Amid all the excitement leading up to the adventure, it’s easy to forget to prepare adequately.

Generally speaking, a camping trip will take more planning and preparation than your previous vacations. Even though camping can be an unforgettable experience, it’s easy for the trip to turn sour pretty quickly if some factors are left to chance.

Failing to prepare is preparing to fail
Getting everything ready to go on your first camping trip can be an exhilarating experience, especially if you’ve never been on an outdoor holiday before. Amid all the excitement leading up to the adventure, it’s easy to forget to prepare adequately.
Generally speaking, a camping trip will take more planning and preparation than your previous vacations. Even though camping can be an unforgettable experience, it’s easy for the trip to turn sour pretty quickly if some factors are left to chance.

Don’t underestimate the power of preparing for the basics. Weather forecasts are subject to change, but getting an idea of what you’re in for is a smart approach to a camping holiday.

It’s also worth packing a small extra box for essentials. Think of handy bits and bobs such as a durable rucksack, batteries, a first aid kit, extra water – these sorts of things. You never know what might happen, and it’s always better to over-prepare than be left short.

Consider your destination options

The UK is an incredible place to explore for endless reasons. The country is home to many unforgettable landscapes, such as beautiful hiking trails, hidden nature gems, scenic coastlines, and more.

If you’re not overly keen for your first outdoor holiday to be away from civilization completely – there are also hundreds of superb camping sites dotted across the UK that contain a range of different facilities.

Some people prefer the feeling of being completely out in the wild, while others prefer the freedom of camping with a little piece of familiarity nearby.

Consider your destination options
The UK is an incredible place to explore for endless reasons. The country is home to many unforgettable landscapes, such as beautiful hiking trails, hidden nature gems, scenic coastlines, and more.
If you’re not overly keen for your first outdoor holiday to be away from civilization completely – there are also hundreds of superb camping sites dotted across the UK that contain a range of different facilities.
Some people prefer the feeling of being completely out in the wild, while others prefer the freedom of camping with a little piece of familiarity nearby.

In fact, It’s not uncommon for some campsites to offer arcades and restaurants on-site, so having the best of both worlds is an option.

In other words, there are many different ways to enjoy camping, and how you choose to do so completely depends on your preferences. It’s worth weighing up your options to determine where you will enjoy spending your time the most.

Anticipate weather changes

You don’t have to be a seasoned camper to have experienced British weather variations. Spring and summer seasons in the UK can have temperatures soaring – followed by torrential rain. Wet weather is less than ideal for campers, but you can easily prepare for whatever the weather throws your way.

You’ll always have the option to combat bad weather by packing useful items. For example, this can include waterproof clothing or packing extra blankets to take with you, which will come in handy when temperatures start to drop.

Anticipate weather changes
You don’t have to be a seasoned camper to have experienced British weather variations. Spring and summer seasons in the UK can have temperatures soaring – followed by torrential rain. Wet weather is less than ideal for campers, but you can easily prepare for whatever the weather throws your way.
You’ll always have the option to combat bad weather by packing useful items. For example, this can include waterproof clothing or packing extra blankets to take with you, which will come in handy when temperatures start to drop.

There’s nothing worse than being uncomfortable when you’re trying to sleep, which is why preparing in advance for temperature fluctuations is an essential part of making sure that you stay comfortable.

Even if you’re camping in the warmer months, nighttime or shaded areas can get you feeling cold – and quickly. Avoid unnecessary shivering and pack for the worst-case scenario.

Plan your days out in advance

Planning for what you’re going to do once you’re out camping is an important tip. If you have kids with you and you haven’t planned much, they could get bored and not realise how great camping can be!

Relaxing whilst taking in the views is great for some, but the little ones may need a little more. If you’ve opted for a campsite, there will likely be parks and play areas on-site.

Plan your days out in advance
Planning for what you’re going to do once you’re out camping is an important tip. If you have kids with you and you haven’t planned much, they could get bored and not realise how great camping can be!
Relaxing whilst taking in the views is great for some, but the little ones may need a little more. If you’ve opted for a campsite, there will likely be parks and play areas on-site.

It might be a good idea to use your camping holiday as an excuse for a digital detox. You’ll be able to get the whole family involved in playing outdoor games such as rounders or flying kites.

Alternatively, packing board games to take with you or indulging in campfire games are a great way to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones, and they’ll certainly help to combat boredom whilst unwinding from an active day exploring nature.

Invest in a decent tent

Whatever your budget may be, there will be a decent tent to accommodate your needs. All you need to do is determine what you want (or need) from your tent. Granted, there are some extravagant tents out there, but it’s not a necessity to enjoy your camping holiday. Decide on what you need and go from there.

An affordable option is a pop-up tent, which will do the job of keeping you sheltered. While not having all the bells and whistles of more expensive tents they are convenient and they do a great job.

If you can afford to pay a little extra, get yourself a larger tent. They can require some more time to heat up, but space and a little extra comfort will go a long way when you’re on an outdoor holiday.

Invest in a decent tent
Whatever your budget may be, there will be a decent tent to accommodate your needs. All you need to do is determine what you want (or need) from your tent. Granted, there are some extravagant tents out there, but it’s not a necessity to enjoy your camping holiday. Decide on what you need and go from there.
An affordable option is a pop-up tent, which will do the job of keeping you sheltered. While not having all the bells and whistles of more expensive tents they are convenient and they do a great job.
If you can afford to pay a little extra, get yourself a larger tent. They can require some more time to heat up, but space and a little extra comfort will go a long way when you’re on an outdoor holiday.

Practice pitching your tent

Once you have decided on the tent, remember to practice pitching it properly. This is one of the most important, yet underestimated tasks of camping.

Imagine arriving at the destination of your dream camping holiday, only to find out you have no idea how to pitch your tent. Yes, you may have instructions – but it’s easier said than done.

If you have access to a garden or outside space, we recommend you perform a trial run of pitching your tent. This is also beneficial for when you have to dismantle and store away your tent, as that’s a whole other task by itself. This way, you can prevent any unwanted surprises or difficulties, ensuring a smooth start to your camping trip!

Practice pitching your tent
Once you have decided on the tent, remember to practice pitching it properly. This is one of the most important, yet underestimated tasks of camping.
Imagine arriving at the destination of your dream camping holiday, only to find out you have no idea how to pitch your tent. Yes, you may have instructions – but it’s easier said than done.
If you have access to a garden or outside space, we recommend you perform a trial run of pitching your tent. This is also beneficial for when you have to dismantle and store away your tent, as that’s a whole other task by itself. This way, you can prevent any unwanted surprises or difficulties, ensuring a smooth start to your camping trip!

Plan mealtimes

Just because you don’t have access to a fully stocked kitchen doesn’t mean you have to miss out on your favourites.

There’s something therapeutic about taking it back to the basics, but nowadays there’s no need to rely solely on your campfire for cooking. And, if you’ve opted for a campsite holiday, chances are you won’t be permitted to have an open fire.

Making sure you have the appliances you need to cook proper meals on your camping trip is essential, not only for energy but for enjoyment. Who doesn’t love a good hearty meal after exploring the great outdoors all day?

We recommend you plan for this by investing in an outdoor cooker or stove. We have plenty to choose from that’ll suit different budgets, and it’ll mean you don’t have to wait until you get home to enjoy a good home-cooked meal. If you’re taking fresh food with you, remember a cooling box!

Understand all of your equipment

As we mentioned before, practicing how to pitch your tent will do wonders when it comes to the real thing. But what about all of your other equipment?

We recommend giving some thought to the little things before your trip. Items that may have slipped your mind, such as sleeping bags will still require understanding.

This may seem like a simple task that doesn’t require practice, but the last thing you want is an unsettled night’s sleep because you can’t work out how to open your sleeping bag.

Understand all of your equipment
As we mentioned before, practicing how to pitch your tent will do wonders when it comes to the real thing. But what about all of your other equipment?
We recommend giving some thought to the little things before your trip. Items that may have slipped your mind, such as sleeping bags will still require understanding.
This may seem like a simple task that doesn’t require practice, but the last thing you want is an unsettled night’s sleep because you can’t work out how to open your sleeping bag.

If you’ve purchased a cooking stove and have never used it before, make sure you know how to connect your gas cylinder. You’ll also need some form of lighting, such as a lantern. What’s the harm in making sure you understand how they function before setting off? The minor details often go unnoticed but matter a tremendous amount.

Of course, camping is trial and error. There’s no doubt that you’ll learn as you go – but there are inconveniences that are preventable.

Follow the rules

This may come as a surprise, as when you think of camping you don’t necessarily think many rules come with the experience.

If you’re travelling to a campsite or even just a popular camping destination – you must remain respectful to other campers. You may not even mean to break the rules, which is why it’s important to be aware of a couple of factors.

Noise travels far and wide. Even seemingly quiet conversations can be heard when you’re out in an open space.

Follow the rules
This may come as a surprise, as when you think of camping you don’t necessarily think many rules come with the experience.
If you’re travelling to a campsite or even just a popular camping destination – you must remain respectful to other campers. You may not even mean to break the rules, which is why it’s important to be aware of a couple of factors.
Noise travels far and wide. Even seemingly quiet conversations can be heard when you’re out in an open space.

If you have other campers pitched close to you, being mindful of your outdoor neighbours will go a long way to ensuring there aren’t any unwanted disagreements. Of course, you should expect the same decency.

If you’re a music lover, making sure your speaker isn’t at full blast into the night is important. There’s nothing wrong with playing music, just make sure your timing is considerate of others. You will most likely find yourself surrounded by friendly campers, so keeping the peace is essential for a nice trip.

Camping with pets

Of course, an outdoor holiday is ideal for a doggo! So, if you’re planning on taking your pooch with you on an outdoor adventure, there are essential items you’ll need to take with you to ensure that they are happy and comfortable.

We have some useful guides on our blog page where you can discover everything you need to know about taking your four-legged friends along for the fun. Click here to find out more about what you’ll need to keep your dog happy on an outdoor holiday.

Alternatively, click here to read our article on the must-have dog accessories you’ll need for an outdoor adventure.

Camping with pets
Of course, an outdoor holiday is ideal for a doggo! So, if you’re planning on taking your pooch with you on an outdoor adventure, there are essential items you’ll need to take with you to ensure that they are happy and comfortable.
We have some useful guides on our blog page where you can discover everything you need to know about taking your four-legged friends along for the fun. Click here to find out more about what you’ll need to keep your dog happy on an outdoor holiday.
Alternatively, click here to read our article on the must-have dog accessories you’ll need for an outdoor adventure.

It’s also worth mentioning that while most places welcome well-behaved dogs with open arms, it’s always best to double-check that the place you plan on visiting is dog friendly ahead of your trip, to avoid disappointment!

If you’d like a little inspiration regarding where to go, we’ve got you covered. Click here to discover several of our top dog-friendly camping site recommendations across the UK.

Enjoy yourself

It’s easy to become consumed in your checklists and planning for your camping trip. Just don’t forget to enjoy yourself!

Some things might not go to plan, you may go off track, forget items, experience a weather change. Just remember to relax, not everything is controllable and it won’t ruin your entire holiday. Being adaptable is a must for camping!

There’s an abundance of amazing places to visit on a camping trip, and incredible experiences await you. We’re certain that once your first adventure is over, you’ll be counting down the days until you can do it all over again. So don’t forget to enjoy your first time!