Blog

Introduction

When I went on my first camping trip, I thought I was ready. I had the tent, the cooler, and a vague idea of how to start a fire. Spoiler: I wasn’t. If you’re new to camping, here are the tips I wish someone had told me before I set foot outdoors.

1. Practice Pitching Your Tent at Home

Why? Because struggling with poles and instructions at a windy campsite is no fun.

✅ Try this before your trip:

• Set up the full tent at home.

• Confirm all pieces are there (stakes, fly, etc.).

• Learn how to re-pack it efficiently.

Suggested Affiliate Product: Easy-Pitch 2-Person Tent

2. Building a Fire Isn’t Always Easy

Nature doesn’t always cooperate—wet wood, wind, or poor prep can ruin your campfire plans.

Bring this:

• Dry kindling or firestarter sticks

• A lighter or waterproof matches

• Patience + a backup plan

Tip: Cotton balls with Vaseline make excellent emergency fire starters.

Suggested Product: Compact Fire Starter Kit

3. Keep Meals Simple and Delicious

Overplanning meals is a common mistake. Start with easy campfire or grill recipes.

Great beginner meals:

• Hot dogs & buns

• Foil-packed potatoes or veggies

• Pre-marinated chicken skewers

Don’t forget: Portable stove or grill = much easier cooking.

Suggested Product: Portable 2-Burner Propane Stove

4. Plan for Bathroom Realities

Some campgrounds have modern washrooms. Others… not so much.

Pack this:

• Toilet paper + hand sanitizer

• Trowel (if going off-grid)

• Ziplock or garbage bags for hygiene

Comfort add-on: Baby wipes are a godsend.

Suggested Product: Compact Camping Toilet

5. You’ll Sleep Better with the Right Setup

Never sleep directly on the tent floor.

Pack:

• Sleeping pad or air mattress

• Sleeping bag rated for low temps

• Warm clothes or thermal layer

Suggested Product: Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad

6. Store Food Securely—Always

Raccoons, squirrels, and even bears love campers’ snacks.

Tips:

• Store food in airtight bins or car trunk

• Never keep food in your tent

• Clean up after meals immediately

Suggested Product: Odor-Proof Food Storage Bag

7. Pack for Both Comfort and Safety

You don’t need to overpack—just pack smart.

Camping Essentials Checklist:

• Flashlight/headlamp

• Bug spray & sunscreen

• First aid kit

• Knife or multi-tool

• Extra socks

• Trash bags

Suggested Product: All-in-One Camping Essentials Kit

Bonus Tip: Download Offline Maps

Cell reception can be sketchy in campgrounds. Always download:

• Maps.me or Google Maps offline

• Trail apps like AllTrails (Pro version recommended)

• Weather app with alerts

Pro tip: Keep a small power bank charged in case your phone dies.

Final Thoughts

Camping is a learning curve, and that’s part of the adventure. Don’t aim for perfection—just go, explore, and build your own system as you gain experience. Start simple, stay safe, and enjoy the freedom that comes with disconnecting.

Going Camping Around Toronto?

• ️ Top 10 Camping Sites in the GTA