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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?
This post may contains affiliate links. As an amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.