For the novice camper, the tendency to take unnecessary equipment can be strong, and the saying ‘everything but the kitchen sink’ could easily have been coined for the uninitiated! This easy to follow guide looks at the essential equipment and accessories you need to enjoy your initial camping trips. We also take a look at some optional equipment that experience has shown the seasoned camper may like to take along to add a few home comforts.
Camping supplies for the first time camper
The most important bases to cover are where you’re going to sleep; beyond that some would say anything else is a bonus as you can eat out while away, but we will look at essential cookware as well.
Tent – wherever possible choose a tent larger than the number of people who will be using it. So, if there are two of you, opt for at least a 3-man tent. Our range of tents includes a variety of sizes up to the Kampa Brighton 4 Tent. Always practice erecting the tent before you go away to avoid difficulties when you arrive.
Sleeping bag – even at the height of summer, UK temperatures can dip at night so choose a sleeping bag with a good tog rating; the higher the tog rating, the warmer the sleeping bag will be. Our choice of Kampa sleeping bags goes from a 4-tog to a 12-tog rating.
Airbed/camp bed – while some will argue that sleeping on something is not essential, we think an inflatable airbed or a camp bed is perfect for stopping you from feeling every lump or bump in the ground (especially where the ground is uneven).
Torch – many campsites will have lights but a torch is indispensable for finding your way to the toilet block after dark or for illuminating inside the tent at night. Our guide to buying a camping torch has lots of advice.
Food preparation – a basic single burner gas stove will enable you to cook meals (but remember the gas cartridges!), along with cooking utensils, a kettle and plates! A water carrier is a good idea too.
Hygiene – basics to pack include toothpaste and toothbrushes, all-in-one shower gel/shampoo, comb/hairbrush, towels, toilet paper and feminine hygiene products.
Staying safe – always have a fully equipped first aid kit, making sure that all contents are in date. Sunscreen with a suitable SPF is recommended too, even for overcast days, and insect repellant.
Rudimentary as the above seems, you really can camp with just those items. Of course, we all want a bit of comfort on holiday and more experienced campers suggest the following items to make life a little easier:
Somewhere to sit and relax -after a long day of walking or excursions, it’s pleasant to return to camp and have somewhere to sit and relax for the evening. Camping chairs are available in a variety of styles and some, like the Kampa Chairman Chair, have an integral table and cup holder.
Eating in comfort – a table is not essential but is certainly a practical addition to camp life and particularly useful for families. A folding table will provide a place to eat and will also come in useful on games night.
As you become a more experienced camper, you will learn what works for you. Families may decide to experiment with their campsite meals and take along a more elaborate gas hob and grill combo or even a barbecue. As the camping bug really takes hold (and we are confident it will!), you can add to your tent with an awning or tent porch and for little ones a toilet tent like the Kampa Privvy Toilet Tent can be useful, particularly at night. As your kit grows, camping storage is handy and can sit nicely under an awning.
At BEC Ingoldmells, we stock everything for the novice and the experienced camper. Our shops on the east coast are open throughout the season and our website has a camping and leisure department well-stocked with items that can be delivered. For other tips and advice, our blog has a helpful camping and leisure section.
For all other enquiries we can be contacted by email or phone on 01754 871152
