Camping tips!

Modified on Tue, 4 Oct, 2016 at 1:03 PM

Selecting a pitch /campsite

When choosing a campsite it is always recommended that you do not disturb the area that you are in , you can do this by following the 7 principles of leave No Trace (https://lnt.org/learn/7-principles). This is very important in both Family camping and in wild camping, you want to ensure your pitch is clean and free from sharp rocks, pebbles and even the odd rogue tent peg ! Once you have cleared the site of debris and followed it is important to assess the campsite and workout what direction to pitch your tent. You will have to account for the direction of the wind and have the foresight to check the weather prior to erecting your tent.

Once you are ready to pitch your tent at your campsite, we recommend using a footprint groundsheet - available as an optional extra with our tents- this protects the underside of the tent from abrasion and damage.

Below are some tips and hints on Campsites and pitching your tent.:

Firstly you will want to maintain your kit before you arrive, making sure it is waterproof and dirt free. This is also your last opportunity's to spot any issues or mistakes with your kit.
Use a kit list to ensure you do not leave anything behind on your trip. I have been guilty of this one - forgetting ones sleeping mat is not a good position to be in when setting up your campsite. Make sure you have everything you need !
Take some plastic bags with you - you can use these to store muddy boots , rubbish (when a bin is not available) and dirty clothes.
Arrive to the campsite early - this ensures you wont be pitching your tent in the dark !
Keep campsites tidy and small - this makes it easier to manage.
Respect the rules of the campsite you are in.
Best way to pack a rucksack.
Have fun and explore!

We have a very handy Family Camping checklist, which you can find on the below link.

http://www.vango.co.uk/gb/blog/18_the-ultimate-family-camping-checklist.html

2. Braving the elements

We have all had times were the weather picks up and its time to batten down the hatches ! The weather can be relentless at times and this will put some strain on your tent , however we have equipped our tents with the technology to withstand most of these adverse conditions.

When the wind picks up you can attach the Tension Band System by clipping in the webbing straps within the tent, to the buckles located on the roof, ensuring to leave some slack on the webbing so the TBS can absorb the energy from the wind without damaging the tent.

We try our best to equip you tent with the necessary equipment to brave the elements, however we all know nature sometimes has other plans. Below is some useful tips if you get stuck in bad weather:

PAY ATTENTION TO WEATHER ALERTS- When there is bad weather predicted there will be weather warnings, please heed these warnings and do not go camping if the weather is too severe .
Pitch your tent somewhere with a natural wind break
Use your vehicle to take the brunt of the wind by parking it in front of your tent.
Carry a spare pole or beam with you as a spare.
Have a basic repair kit with you. (i.e Seam sealer, adhesive patches)
Carry some reproofer with you in case you need to top up your tents water resistance.
KNOW WHEN TO CALL IT A DAY- When the weather gets to severe it is time to leave, if it is possible try and salvage your tent. However if the weather is to bad then you should abandon ship and return to the safety of your car or local hotel.

Lastly - don't pitch your tent like our marketing team. ☺

3. Heading home.

After you have enjoyed your trip, and it is time to pack up and leave the wilderness behind the best thing to do is to revert back to your kit list and ensure you pack everything away correctly - and more importantly, don't forget anything ! You will also want to dry and clean your tent prior to folding it up , as this ensures the tent will not be affected by mildew and prolongs the life of your tent.

Below is even more tips and links that will help you on your journey home :

How to pack your sleeping bag.
How to fold a small tent
How to fold a large tent.
Make sure to pick up and up-root all your pegs and items from the campsite
Pack up and dispose of all rubbish in the proper receptacles.