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Top 10 Camping Tips for Beginners
February 8, 2021
Follow these simple camping tips and enjoy a successful first camping trip
We'd like to share our top 10 camping tips with you so that you can enjoy your next camping trip in comfort and safety.
Whether you're new to camping or you're just thinking about taking a trip, we hope that these tips will help you on your way.
Top 10 camping tips for beginners
1. Choose your tent size wisely
Whilst a one-man pop-up tent might seem a cheap and convenient option for your first camping trip, generally they aren't particularly comfortable or weather proof.
They also tend to be a bit on the small side. A good general rule when choosing a tent is to think at least one size bigger than the number of people using it. So, if two people are sharing, buy a three-man tent - if three people are sharing, buy a four-man tent etc.
2. Practice putting up your tent
Your first real camping trip probably isn't the best time to find out that you don't know how to put up your tent. Have a trial run in your garden or nearby park. That way you won't waste precious time during your trip.
This will also give you the opportunity to check for any rips or bent tent poles. Which brings us onto our next tip . . .
3. Check your gear (then check it again)
Before you leave for your camping trip check that you have all of your gear, and that it's in good working order - count tent poles, tent pegs and ropes.
Make a list of everything that you need and check-off every item whilst you pack your bags or load the car.
At the end of your camping trip make sure that you clean and dry everything thoroughly so that it's ready for your next trip.
4. Think about lighting
If you're visiting from a town or city, you might be surprised just how dark the countryside can be!
Whilst most campsites provide lighting around the main facilities, we would suggest that you pack a good quality light for inside your tent, plus at least one reliable torch (and remember to pack spare batteries).
5. Buy a good ground mat
If you want a good nights sleep it would be a good idea to invest in a ground mat. Not only will a good ground mat act as a buffer between you and the ground, it will also serve as an insulating layer to keep you warm.
Ground mats range from simple foam mats to self-inflating air mattresses.
6. Pack sum duct tape
Duct tape can solve a multitude of issues that you might experience whilst camping. Carry out a speedy repair to a damaged tent or sleeping bag, seal packets of food to keep them fresh, or even fix a cracked water container - the possibilities are endless!
7. Bring your own toilet paper
Even the most efficiently-ran campsite may occasionally run low on toilet paper. Make sure that you don't get caught short and remember to pack a spare roll or two!
8. Pack earplugs
Nature can be surprisingly noisy!
Whether it's the sound of sheep in the neighbouring field, an unexpected downpour in the middle of the night, or birds nesting in the nearby woods, if you're a light sleeper you should definitely pack some earplugs.
9. Arrive during daylight hours
Pitching camp in the dark is not ideal, even if you're an experienced camper, and your fellow campers probably won't appreciate the disruption. So make sure you plan your trip accordingly and arrive at a reasonable time.
Each campsite will have its own check-in times so make sure you check before you start your journey.
10. Don't pitch camp under any trees
Pitching camp in the shelter of a mighty tree might seem like a good idea, but you'll soon regret it when your brand new tent is covered in droplets of sap! Sticky tree sap turns packing up your tent into a complete nightmare, not to mention the hassle of trying to clean everything up when you get home.
It's also a good idea to camp on high-ground if possible. That way if it rains, you won't find yourself camping in a giant puddle.
We hope that these tips will give you a head start in planning your next camping trip. If you're looking for a peaceful adult only campsite then why not give The Rodney Stoke Caravan and Camping Park near Cheddar Gorge in Somerset a try.
Find out more about The Rodney Stoke Caravan and Camping Park.
Latest News
We are proud to share that Riverside Holiday Village has achieved the Environmental and Sustainability Award at the prestigious Somerset Business Awards 2025. This award recognises companies or individuals who can demonstrate a positive and long-term impact on the environment within their businesses. With evidence to show how they have improved environmental performance, implemented the efficient use of resources or supported sustainable development or environmentally-friendly schemes. We were also shortlisted for the Medium Business of the Year Award . Speaking about the awards, David Crew, Somerset Chamber Managing Director, said; 'Every year the awards recognise and honour the achievements of our vibrant business community. The economic situation may be challenging, but Somerset’s business community had again shown resilience and excellence across all sectors.'. Commenting after the awards dinner, which was held at The Pavillion in Weston-super-Mare, David Tattersall, Group Manager at West Country Parks, commented; 'We are delighted to have achieved this award. As a business, we have become increasingly aware of our environmental responsibilities; from reducing waste and energy use, to increasing biodiversity and supporting eco-friendly initiatives, we have really embraced this element of our business over the last few years and it's fantastic to have had all of our hard work recognised.' We would like to thank our visitors, supporters and all of our fantastic team for your support.
Gareth Hockey, Director of RHL Activities: “We’re excited to have Riverside Holiday Village on board as an official camping partner. Their commitment to providing our riders and spectators with a top-quality stay makes them a perfect fit for the Weston Beach Race experience.” David Tattersall, Group Manager of West Country Park Homes: “We’re really pleased with the opportunity of working with RHL and providing superb camping, dining and entertainment facilities for Weston Beach Race riders and fans. This Event benefits many local businesses and offers something different and, clearly appealing, every year it’s held. It’s a real positive for the Town! We look forward to seeing you all in October.”
Visitors may remember that earlier this year we shared our Green Goals for 2025 . Despite this being our busiest ever start to the season, we’ve still found the time to make some fantastic progress over the last 3 months and we are proud to share the first of our quarterly updates for 2025;