Let's go camping
Thursday 9 July 2009
Camping is one of the greatest ways to get a taste of the outdoors. Check out a few places where you can set up a tent and what you should do if things go pear shaped.
Where should I camp?
There are loads of places around the UK where you can go. Here are a few popular locations.
Lake District
If you’re a true outdoorsy type then there’s no better place to camp than in the Lake District. With so many lakes, waterfalls and mountains, you couldn't be closer to nature. When you're there, check out Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England.
Many of the smaller campsites don’t even require booking in advance. This is useful if you decide to go on the spur of the moment, or if you decide to cut your trip short due to bad weather.
n2k picks: Long Valley Bell Tents.
Woolacombe Bay
One of the most popular places to camp is Woolacombe Bay, mostly because the beach was once named the best in Britain. It is also quite popular with surfers. We were there for the British Schools’ Surf Contest – listen to the podcast.
Woolacombe is a good place to go if you’re a first time camper. Many sites are fully equipped with facilities like swimming pools, indoor showers and entertainment areas for people who aren’t ready to completely rough it quite yet.
n2k picks: Twitchen House Holiday Park.
Swansea
The Welsh town of Swansea has some of the best shores in Britain with sand that stretches for miles. Many campsites are set up right near the shore, so campers can wake up to the sounds of crashing waves and can take an early morning dip. There are also plenty of caves to explore.
A lot of sites are run by local families, so there’s great community spirit around.
n2k picks: Hillend Caravan and Camping Park.
Checklist
Make sure you’ve got everything you need or you might find yourself without shelter or food for the night.
Tent
Some tents can be really confusing. Make sure you look at the instructions first so that when it comes to actually putting it up it wil be easier. Also, pegs and a mallet will help!
Sleeping bags will keep you really warm, so don’t forget yours. A torch can come in handy too – and not just for telling ghost stories.
Cooking utensils
It’s important to think about how you’re going to feed yourself. If you want your meals hot, why not bring a disposable BBQ? However, check with the campsite to make sure BBQ equipment is allowed.
Bring a few utensils too – knives, a chopping board and a tin opener are always helpful. Don’t forget to bring plates!
Clothing
Always bring some warm clothes even if you're camping in the summer. It can get quite cold during the night. Try to wear waterproof clothing as often as you can, as nothing’s worse than camping when your entire body is soaking wet.
Bring the right footwear like wellies or thick walking boots, as they’re great for getting down and dirty with nature. Leave your high heels or your bright white trainers at home.
Safety first
Make sure you bring a first aid kit for any unexpected injuries, as well as insect repellent and sun cream even if it’s not sunny!
What could go wrong?
I can’t put my tent up
Ask a member of staff at the campsite to help you out. Or call on nearby campers and ask them if they wouldn’t mind showing you what to do.
It’s pouring!
Make sure you’ve got some handy games or magazines to keep you entertained until the rain dies down. You should also buy a good quality flysheet that will keep water out.
There’s no room to set up
Not all campsites assign areas for people to pitch, so always get there early to avoid disappointment.
There’s not enough food
Most campsites have small shops nearby so that you can buy emergency munchies. To avoid the hassle though, plan what you're going to eat and how you're going to cook it beforehand.
