Camping in the summer requires much less planning than at other times. The weather will likely be better, meaning fewer problems with your tent, attire, and campfire.
However, the appeal of getting out in the countryside for a weekend away is too tempting for some to refuse. That’s why we present our Autumn camping guide with some tips to get you started.
Check the Forecast
Before packing the car, you need to check the weather conditions. If the sun is supposed to be out, you can pack accordingly. However, you need to ensure you’re prepared if it is due to rain; maybe keep the wellies and raincoat in the boot of your car in an emergency.
Overnight temperatures can plummet outside of summer, so you need to dress accordingly. A thin tent won’t do much to keep you warm at night, so bring a comfortable jumper, some thick socks, and a sleeping bag to ensure you won’t go cold during the night.
Carefully Select Your Location
Ideally, a quiet campsite far away from noise and light pollution is best so you can see the stars at night. There’s nothing more serene than lounging back in the deck chair and gazing at the night sky.
It isn’t just the campsite you need to select carefully, either. It would be best if you positioned your tent on flat and dry ground so that no moisture runs into your tent through the gaps (this is the worst feeling when you’re camping). Don’t pitch your tent at an angle because you’ll have an uncomfortable sleep if water enters.
Spend More, Gain More
If you have an inflatable mattress, a comfortable pillow, or the right fabric tent, these can make a massive difference to your experience. If you decide to save money and sleep on a thin roll-out mat instead, your back might not thank you.
We understand that some people are not looking to splurge on these things, but if you’re a regular camper and envisage that you’ll be heading out for more camping trips shortly, it could be a worthwhile investment.
Getting the Right Fuel for the Fire
Relaxing by the campfire at night to keep warm and socialise is a great feeling; the ambience is unrivalled, but to ensure your fire lasts, you must assemble it correctly with the right fuel. Check the campsite rules to determine whether fires are allowed beforehand.
Consider purchasing kiln-dried logs to reduce how much smoke your fire will emit and keep everybody around the fire free from what’s emitted. This will produce a long-lasting fire with significant heat, pleasing everybody as you’ll need to top up less.
Barbecue Tips
If you plan to bring a portable barbecue with you, store the food in a cool box to prevent it from going bad on the journey. Unless you have a disposable barbecue, bring some Instant Light BBQ Charcoal with you for the smoky flavours it gives your food.
Firelighters can help your barbecue start, so position them between briquettes, wait for the coals to start burning, and then enjoy cooking your food.
