With summer almost here, you’re probably thinking about your vacation plans, both at home and abroad.
Maybe you’re not a big fan of vacationing in other countries.
Maybe you’re afraid of flying.
Perhaps you’re still hesitant to leave the UK in the midst of the pandemic.
Thankfully, the UK is well-versed in staycations these days, and camping is even more so.
Campsites can be found in almost every part of the country, allowing you to enjoy the best of Britain while on a staycation.
If you’re going camping this year, you’re probably looking for some helpful advice on how to have a stress-free trip.
Because camping is known for being stressful, if you want nothing but happy memories from your vacation, you’ll want to pay attention.
And, given the unpredictability of British weather, it pays to be prepared.
Knowing how to deal with the elements can mean the difference between a relaxing experience and grinning and enduring the cold.
Danielle Mason, Head of Product Development at The Fine Bedding Company, has shared her top tips to help you plan your trip so you can relax and unwind in the greenery instead of stressing.
Plan ahead for better packing
Making sure everything is organized down to the last detail may appear to be a difficult task, but it can make or break your entire vacation.
A pleasant and relaxing camping vacation, according to Danielle, requires planning.
‘Researching what types of activities are available locally, as well as what facilities are available on-site,’ she adds, will help you pack smarter.
She suggests preparing food ahead of time at home so that you can heat up pre-made one-pot recipes like chilli or curry.
Put pen to paper and write those lists
Personally, I enjoy making lists, and you’ll often find me scribbling on a notepad to keep track of everything.
If making paper lists isn’t your thing, using applications like Trello or Google Keep to plan your vacation might be really helpful.
There are lots of template packing lists available, according to Danielle, to help you get started.
‘It’s best to revise your list each year before and after you trip,’ she suggested for more experienced campers.
‘That way you know exactly what you did and didn’t need.’
Pack light… but right
‘When packing, think about what you really need to take with you,’ Danielle urges.
‘You likely don’t need those ten extra pairs of socks and pants.
‘Most modern campsites now have laundry facilities, showers and washing up stations.
‘So don’t take single-use plastic cups and plates, be kind to the environment!’
Packing doesn’t just apply to the rucksacks and holdalls you plan on taking – packing the car for your trip is just as, if not even more important.
‘When packing the car, put the tent in last as this will be the first thing you take out when you arrive at the campsite,’ Danielle adds.
‘Use vacuum bags for your bedding and clothing, before your journey home you can suck out the air at the campsite with your airbed pump set to deflate.’
Remember that British weather is unpredictable
As previously stated, the weather in the United Kingdom can be hot one minute and cold the next, so being prepared is critical.
Danielle talks on how the weather in the spring and summer might be nice during the day but freezing at night.
‘You’ll want to invest in a high-quality sleeping bag which is versatile and durable,’ she adds.
‘The Fine Bedding Company recommends 7.0 tog when camping in the UK, even in the height of summer.
‘A 3-in-1 sleeping bag has great versatility, to be used as either two single sleeping bags, a double sleeping bag or even used as two separate blankets.
‘It also has a great warmth to weight ratio, meaning a smaller pack size for the same warmth compared to other bulky sleeping bags on the market.’
Have a plan B
Holidays, whether overseas or in the United Kingdom, are rarely easy, which is why having a backup plan is a good idea.
Danielle suggests having backup activities planned for rainy days to avoid being stranded inside the tent for an entire day or more.
‘Activities such as swimming, bowling, shopping and eating out are a great way to keep entertained whilst staying dry.’
Get everyone involved
Because planning a holiday is a finely tuned operation, it’s a lot for one person to plan single-handedly.
Thinking about what tasks can be delegated to your partner or the rest of the family, is a great way to give yourself a bit of breathing space.
Danielle says: ‘Even children can be in charge of packing their own toys (carefully edited down by yourself afterwards of course) and your partner could be in charge of mapping the route, planning in pit stops and fuel refills.
‘Delegating specific tasks like this can help ease the responsibility, making the trip more enjoyable.’