|

113+ Camping Hacks and Tips from Real Campers in 2023

ByAndrew Updated on

Welcome to the ultimate guide for camping enthusiasts! Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time adventurer, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect resource for enhancing your outdoor experience.

In this article, we’ve gathered 113+ camping hacks, tips, and tricks shared by real campers (including myself!) who have spent countless nights under the stars. These trail-tested and time-honored suggestions will help you elevate your camping game by making your trips more efficient, enjoyable, and memorable.

From expert advice on packing, cooking, and setting up camp, to ingenious solutions for dealing with unexpected challenges in the great outdoors, this comprehensive collection of tips is your go-to guide for a better camping experience. 

So, grab your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery as we dive into the world of helpful camping hints that will transform the way you explore the wilderness!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This post may contain links to affiliate programs. I might earn a small commission on purchases made through affiliate links on this site at no extra cost to you.

If you like this type of post that’s chock-full of information, check out my complete list of camping essentials that includes all the gear you’ll ever need to go camping!

Truly Useful Camping Hacks, Tips, and Tricks

To make your future camping trips go as smoothly as possible, we’ve covered hacks and tips from every angle and category that we could think of. Browse through the whole list, or skip to the section you want some extra tips for!

Packing Tips for a Camping Trip

Here are some of the best tips to keep in mind when you’re packing for your next camping trip:

  1. Use packing cubes – Keep your belongings organized and easy to find with packing cubes. These lightweight compartments can help you separate items by category, making packing and unpacking a breeze.

  2. Roll, don’t fold – Save space and reduce wrinkles by rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This will also make it easier to find and organize your items.
  1. Dry bags for electronics – Protect your electronics from moisture by storing them in dry bags. These waterproof bags will ensure your devices stay safe and dry during your trip.
  1. Use clothing as padding – Protect breakable items like cookware by wrapping them in clothes or towels, providing extra padding and saving space.
  1. Pack a repair kit – Include duct tape, a sewing kit, and tent repair patches to address any tent, clothing, or gear malfunctions while camping.

Cooking Tips for Camping

These are some of the best cooking tips for camping that will help make it easier to eat simpler, better meals during your next great camping trip. We’re going above and beyond just telling you to use cast iron while camping:

  1. Pre-make and freeze meals – Save time and effort by preparing meals ahead of time and freezing them. Simply reheat the meals over your campfire or camp stove when you’re ready to eat.
  1. One-pot meals – Simplify campsite cooking by choosing one-pot meals that require minimal ingredients and cleanup.
  1. Pack a spice kit – Enhance your campfire cuisine by bringing a small spice kit with your favorite seasonings in travel-sized containers.
  1. Use a camping stove windshield – Improve cooking efficiency and reduce fuel consumption with a windshield around your camp stove.
  1. Plan no-cook meals – Prepare a few meals that don’t require cooking, like sandwiches or energy bars, for quick and easy snacking.

Check out my complete guide on cooking while camping for even more great tips!

Tips for Setting Up Your Campsite

Here are some of the best camping hacks and tips to make setting up your campsite as easy as possible:

  1. Arrive early – Arrive at your campsite early to choose the best spot and set up your camp before it gets dark. If you’re staying at a campground that accepts reservations, book your preferred spot ahead of time.
  1. Use a tarp – Place a tarp under your tent to protect it from moisture and punctures, and consider using another one over your tent in bad weather to shield it from rain and provide extra shade.
  1. Set up a clothesline – Hang a clothesline between trees to dry wet clothes, towels, and swimsuits.
  1. Practice tent setup at home – Familiarize yourself with your tent’s assembly process before your trip to save time and frustration at the campsite. I also have a step-by-step guide on setting up a tent to make it even easier!
  1. Face your tent door away from the wind – Position your tent’s entrance away from prevailing winds to minimize drafts and dust entering your sleeping area.

Tips on Essential Camping Gear

These are some of the most essential tools and gear that you should always take with you on every camping trip:

  1. Multi-tool – Bring a high-quality multi-tool with essential functions like a knife, pliers, and screwdriver to save space and weight in your pack.
  1. Headlamp – Opt for a headlamp over a flashlight to keep your hands free while navigating or performing tasks at night.
  1. Solar charger – Keep your electronic devices charged with a portable solar charger or power bank. This eco-friendly option is perfect for extended trips away from power sources.
  1. Invest in a lightweight camping chair – A comfortable, portable chair can significantly improve your campsite relaxation experience.
  1. Choose gear with multiple uses – Opt for items that serve multiple purposes, such as a bandana (towel, sun protection, etc.) or a small camping pot that doubles as a mug. Something like a hiking watch with GPS can also track your location, monitor your fitness & health, and more.

Camping Tips for Solo Campers

If you’re going on a solo camping trip, here are some of the best tips to consider to keep yourself safe and entertained:

  1. Share your itinerary – Always let someone know your camping plans, including your destination, route, and expected return date.
  1. Stay on marked trails – Stick to well-traveled paths to reduce the risk of getting lost.
  1. Invest in a personal locator beacon (PLB) – A PLB can be a lifesaver in emergencies, allowing rescuers to locate you quickly in case of an accident or injury.
  1. Be mindful of your energy levels – Know your physical limits and avoid overexertion, as there’s no one else to rely on for help during solo trips.
  1. Bring a book or journal – Document your experiences or unwind with a good book during downtime, which can be especially rewarding when camping alone.

Camping Tips for Couples

Here are some of the top tips for your next couples’ camping trip:

  1. Double sleeping pad – Invest in a double sleeping pad, multiple sleeping bags, or a big enough air mattress for a comfortable night’s sleep with your partner. For more details on choosing the right sleeping surface, check out our comparison of air mattresses vs sleeping pads.
  1. Share the load – Divide the camping gear and responsibilities between the two of you for a more enjoyable experience.
  1. Plan activities together – Engage in bonding activities like hiking, stargazing, or cooking meals together to create lasting memories.
  1. Create a shared packing list – Coordinate your gear and supplies to avoid duplicate items and save space in your packs.
  1. Take turns leading – Share the responsibility of decision-making and leading on the trail to strengthen your bond and communication skills.

Camping Tips for Families

Family camping trips can be super fun, and these tips and tricks will help keep the kids entertained and ensure everything goes as smoothly as a family trip can:

  1. Choose a family-friendly campsite – Opt for campsites with amenities like playgrounds, swimming areas, and easy hiking trails to keep kids entertained.
  1. Bring age-appropriate gear – Ensure children have the right-sized backpacks, sleeping bags, and clothing to make their camping experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
  1. Plan kid-friendly meals – Prepare simple, nutritious, and tasty meals that appeal to children’s tastes, such as campfire hot dogs, mac and cheese, or foil packet dinners.
  1. Assign tasks to kids – Involve children in camping activities by giving them age-appropriate responsibilities, like gathering firewood or setting up their sleeping area.
  1. Plan family-friendly hikes – Choose trails with manageable distances and terrain to keep the experience enjoyable for everyone.

Tips for Camping in the Winter

Here are some of the best camping tricks and tips to brave the cold and camp in the middle of winter:

  1. Layer up – Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating middle layers, and waterproof outer layers to stay warm and dry in cold weather.
  1. Insulate your sleeping area – Use a high R-value sleeping pad and a winter-rated sleeping bag to retain heat during cold nights. Consider opting for a quality insulated tent like a Crua if you plan on camping in the cold and snow.
  1. Store electronics and batteries in a warm place – Keep your devices and spare batteries inside your sleeping bag or pockets to prolong their life in cold temperatures.
  1. Insulate your water bottle – Use an insulated water bottle cover or store your bottle in your sleeping bag or under a blanket to help prevent the water from freezing.
  1. Ventilate your tent – Crack the tent’s vents or door to minimize condensation buildup, which can cause dampness and cold.

Tips for Camping in the Summer

These tips and tricks will help you beat the heat during a summertime camping trip:

  1. Stay hydrated – Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it frequently to prevent dehydration.
  1. Apply sunscreen and wear sun-protective clothing – Shield yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by using sunscreen and wearing lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats.
  1. Choose a well-shaded campsite – Set up camp in a shaded area to stay cooler during hot summer days.
  1. Freeze water bottles – Use frozen water bottles to keep your cooler cold without the mess of melting ice, and enjoy cold water as they thaw.
  1. Use a portable fan – Increase airflow and stay cool during hot summer nights with a battery-powered or solar fan.

Camping in the heat is no joke, make sure you don’t spend too much time outdoors if it’s too hot to camp!

Tips for Camping in the Rain

There’s always a chance it’s going to rain while you’re camping. These useful tips will make the most of it and help to keep you dry:

  1. Waterproof your gear – Use waterproof covers for your backpack and a rainfly for your tent to keep your belongings dry. Waterproofing sprays are a cheap, easy way to protect your tent even more.
  1. Wear quick-drying clothing – Opt for synthetic materials that wick moisture away from your skin and dry quickly.
  1. Carry extra socks – Wet feet can lead to blisters and discomfort, so pack extra socks to change into if your current pair gets wet.
  1. Pack extra tarps – Bring additional tarps for creating makeshift rain shelters or covering gear and firewood.
  1. Choose quick-drying footwear – Opt for shoes made of synthetic materials that dry faster than leather or suede, ensuring your feet stay comfortable and dry.

Tips for Leaving No Trace While Camping

With these camping tricks and tips, you’ll leave no trace at your campsite, helping to preserve nature and protect the area as much as possible:

  1. Pack up and dispose of all trash – Bring heavy duty garbage bags and ensure you remove all waste from the campsite to leave the area as you found it.
  1. Use biodegradable soap – Opt for environmentally friendly soaps for washing dishes and personal hygiene to reduce your impact on the environment.
  1. Camp on durable surfaces – Set up your tent on established campsites or durable surfaces like gravel or sand to minimize damage to vegetation.
  1. Use a camping stove – Minimize your environmental impact by using a camping stove instead of making a fire, especially in sensitive areas.
  1. Stay on designated trails – Avoid trampling vegetation or disturbing wildlife by sticking to established trails and campsites.

Camping Tips for Wildlife Safety

These are some of the best tips when it comes to the wildlife that may be present while you’re camping:

  1. Store food in bear canisters – Use bear-resistant containers or hang food in a tree to prevent attracting wildlife to your campsite.
  1. Maintain a safe distance – Observe wildlife from a distance and never approach or feed them.
  1. Carry bear spray – In bear country, carry bear spray as a non-lethal deterrent in case of an encounter.
  1. Learn about local wildlife – Familiarize yourself with the animals native to your camping destination and their behaviors to reduce the risk of negative encounters.
  1. Keep a clean campsite – Store food and scented items properly, and clean up all trash and crumbs (and place it in a trash bag) to minimize attracting wildlife.

Camping Tips for Fire Safety

Fires are always a concern for campers, especially for anyone who’s just learning how to start a campfire. Use these tips to maintain fire safety at all times to protect yourself, others, and the area where you’re camping:

  1. Check fire restrictions – Before starting a campfire, verify if fires are allowed in your camping area and follow any posted regulations.
  1. Build a proper fire pit – Use a designated fire pit or create a fire ring with rocks to contain your campfire.
  1. Extinguish fires completely – Douse your fire with water and stir the ashes until they’re cold to the touch before leaving the campsite.
  1. Keep a bucket of water nearby – Have a bucket of water or sand close to your campfire to quickly extinguish it if needed.
  1. Follow the campfire safety rule – Keep your campfire small and manageable and never leave it unattended.

Tips for First Aid and Safety While Camping

Use these tips to be ready in case of an emergency:

  1. Carry a first aid kit – Pack a well-stocked first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications.
  1. Learn basic first aid – Familiarize yourself with basic first aid techniques, including CPR and treating common injuries like cuts, sprains, and insect bites.
  1. Stay weather-aware – Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes in conditions.
  1. Know your emergency contacts – Research local emergency phone numbers and park rangers’ contact information in case of an emergency.
  1. Carry a whistle – A whistle is a lightweight safety tool for signaling distress or alerting others to your location in case of an emergency.

Camping Tips for Comfort and Convenience

With these tips and tricks, you can maintain many of the same creature comforts you enjoy at home so that you’re as comfortable as can be:

  1. Bring a camping pillow – A compact camping pillow can significantly improve your sleep quality and comfort.
  1. Pack camp shoes – Bring lightweight, comfortable shoes to wear around camp after a day of hiking.
  1. Use a solar shower – Enjoy a warm shower in the great outdoors by using a portable solar shower bag.
  1. Inflatable solar lanterns – Use lightweight, inflatable solar lanterns for a portable and eco-friendly lighting solution around your campsite.
  1. Bring a lightweight hammock – Relax in style and comfort with a portable hammock, perfect for napping or reading during downtime. Learn more about how to hang a hammock in our guide here!

It’s vital to know where you are at all times during a camping trip and these tips will help keep you safe:

  1. Carry a map and compass – Even with GPS devices, it’s essential to have a map and compass as a backup in case of electronic failure.
  1. Learn basic navigation skills – Familiarize yourself with using a map and compass to orient yourself and navigate through the wilderness.
  1. Mark your campsite location – Use a GPS device, map, or visual landmarks to remember your campsite’s location to easily find your way back.
  1. Download offline maps – Download digital maps of your camping area for offline use on your smartphone or GPS device as a backup.
  1. Familiarize yourself with trail markers – Learn the trail marking system used in your camping destination to interpret signs and avoid getting lost.

Camping Tips for Hygiene

These basic hygiene tips and tricks are essential for any camping trip:

  1. Pack hand sanitizer – Maintain cleanliness and reduce the risk of illness by using hand sanitizer regularly, especially before handling food.
  1. Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole – Practice responsible waste disposal by using a portable toilet or digging a cathole at least 200 feet away from water sources.
  1. Carry wet wipes – Stay fresh on the trail with biodegradable wet wipes for quick and easy personal hygiene.
  1. Establish a handwashing station – Set up a simple handwashing area with a water container, soap, and towel to promote good hygiene in the outdoors.
  1. Bring a collapsible sink – A lightweight, collapsible sink makes washing dishes and cleaning up easier.

Camping Tips for Entertainment

Even though camping itself is a form of entertainment, these tips will ensure you (and your family) don’t get bored on your next adventure:

  1. Bring compact games – Pack lightweight, portable games like cards, travel-sized board games, or a frisbee to stay entertained during downtime.
  1. Capture memories – Bring a camera or smartphone to document your adventure and capture memories to share with friends and family.
  1. Enjoy nature’s entertainment – Embrace the natural surroundings by stargazing, birdwatching, or listening to the sounds of the wilderness for a truly immersive experience.
  1. Plan a scavenger hunt – Create a nature-based scavenger hunt for yourself or your group to encourage exploration and engagement with the environment.
  1. Bring a portable speaker – Enjoy your favorite music or listen to podcasts around the campfire with a compact, waterproof speaker.

Camping Tips for Making Friends at the Campground

Campgrounds are like a small neighborhood. Use these tips and tricks to prevent yourself from becoming the neighbor that nobody really likes:

  1. Be a good neighbor – Introduce yourself to neighboring campers and be respectful of their space and privacy.
  1. Share supplies or expertise – Offer to help fellow campers if they need assistance, or share supplies if they’re in need. This can lead to lasting friendships and positive camping experiences.
  1. Participate in group activities – Join campground-organized events like group hikes, potlucks, or workshops to meet new people and learn new skills.
  1. Share a meal – Offer to share a meal or snacks with neighboring campers to foster camaraderie and make new friends.
  1. Respect quiet hours – Be mindful of the noise you make and adhere to campground quiet hours to maintain a peaceful atmosphere for everyone.

Camping Tips for Staying Organized

Here are a few hacks to help you stay organized:

  1. Create a camping checklist – Make a comprehensive list of items to pack and tasks to complete before leaving for your trip to ensure you don’t forget anything important.
  1. Use a carabiner to hang items – Clip carabiners to your backpack or campsite setup to hang items like water bottles, hats, or cooking utensils for easy access.
  1. Label your camping gear – Mark your camping equipment with your name or a unique identifier to avoid mix-ups with other campers and keep your belongings organized.
  1. Use color-coded bags – Organize your camping gear in different colored bags to quickly identify and locate specific items.
  1. Maintain a campsite routine – Establish a daily routine for setting up, cooking, and packing up your campsite to stay organized and efficient.

Campsite Safety Tips

I have a full guide on camping safety tips, but here are a few of the big ones to keep in mind. These tips will help you keep your entire campsite as safe as possible: 

  1. Choose a flat, level surface – Set up your tent on flat ground to ensure a comfortable sleeping area and reduce the risk of rainwater pooling under your tent.
  1. Proper food storage – Store your food in airtight containers or resealable bags to keep it fresh and prevent attracting wildlife.
  1. Check for hazards – Inspect your campsite for potential hazards like dead tree limbs or nearby cliffs before setting up your tent.
  1. Store valuables securely – Keep important items like wallets, passports, and keys in a secure, hidden location within your campsite to prevent theft or loss.

Unique Camping Hacks

Here are some of the most unique camping hints and hacks out there to really take your camping adventures to the next level:

  1. Use a shoe organizer for storage – Hang an over-the-door shoe organizer in your tent or from a tree for easy access to small items like utensils, toiletries, and snacks.
  1. Repurpose a coffee can – Use an empty coffee can as a makeshift toilet paper dispenser to keep the roll dry and protected from dirt.
  1. DIY fire starters – Create homemade fire starters by dipping cotton balls in petroleum jelly, stuffing dryer lint into toilet paper rolls, or using egg cartons filled with wax and wood chips.
  1. Use duct tape as a blister preventer – Apply duct tape to hot spots on your feet to reduce friction and prevent blisters during long hikes.
  1. Make a lantern with a headlamp – Strap your headlamp around a translucent water bottle with the light facing inward to create a makeshift lantern.

Bonus Camping Tips

You’ve read this far, so here are a few bonus camping tricks to make your next trip the best one yet:

  1. Embrace the experience – Leave your expectations behind, adapt to unforeseen challenges, and enjoy the serenity and adventure that camping offers. Remember, it’s all about creating lasting memories and connecting with nature.
  1. Stay flexible and adaptable – Embrace the unexpected and be prepared to adjust your plans as needed, turning challenges into memorable adventures.
  1. Practice gratitude – Take a moment each day to appreciate the beauty and serenity of nature, fostering a deeper connection with the environment and enhancing your camping experience.
  2. Create a trip-specific keepsake – Collect a small, natural item from each camping trip, such as a unique rock, a pressed leaf, or a small piece of driftwood, and turn it into a keepsake. Label it with the trip’s details and create a collection of memories that you can look back on and cherish.

Frequently Asked Questions about Camping

What is the best type of tent for camping?

The best tent for camping depends on factors such as group size, weather conditions, and personal preferences. Consider factors like tent size (number of occupants), weight, seasonality (3-season or 4-season), and ease of setup when choosing the right tent for your needs.

The answer to this question usually comes down to pop-up tents vs regular tents, which we have a complete breakdown of to help you decide. If you think a pop-up tent is best, find the right one for you in this list of the best ones on the market.

How can I ensure I’m camping safely?

To camp safely, research your destination beforehand and familiarize yourself with local wildlife and potential hazards. Carry a well-stocked first aid kit, know basic first aid techniques, and follow established safety practices such as proper food storage and maintaining a clean campsite.

How much water should I bring for camping?

The amount of water you should bring depends on factors such as the availability of water sources at your destination, the duration of your trip, and your personal water consumption. A general guideline is to carry at least 2-3 liters of water per person per day for drinking and cooking.

If you’re planning on hiking during your camping trip, you might need to bring a bit more water to stay hydrated. This post on how to carry your water while you hike will make it as easy as possible to bring enough water on the trails with you.

Can I bring my dog camping?

Many campgrounds and parks allow dogs but always check the specific rules and regulations for your destination. If dogs are allowed, ensure your pet is well-behaved, stays leashed, and that you clean up after them. Be mindful of other campers and local wildlife when bringing your dog.

For more information, check out our complete guide on how to go camping with dogs that’s full of tips and tricks to make it easier!

How do I find a suitable campsite?

Select a campsite based on things like availability, nearness to water sources, level ground, and shade. Use online guides, manuals, or suggestions from individual campers to discover a reasonable campsite.

While dispersed camping might mean finding your own suitable site while you’re on the move, established campgrounds are easy to find online from government sites or something like Kampgrounds of America. 

Main Takeaways

In the end, camping is one of the best ways to spend time in nature and take in all its beauty. It truly is one of the best ways to experience what the world has to offer. I’ve been on solo trips, trips with my girlfriend, and even family trips, and I’ve personally used most of these tips myself.

Take it from someone who started with zero camping knowledge and has garnered years of experience. Following these tips will make a huge difference on your next adventure. Happy camping!

Andrew is an outdoor enthusiast who loves everything from camping and hiking to scuba diving and jumping out of airplanes. Join me as I explore life outside the office and see what the world has to offer. If you want to know more about taking on the outdoors, keep reading!

Similar Posts

21+ Camping Essentials: Ultimate Camping Packing List
|

21+ Camping Essentials: Ultimate Camping Packing List

ByAndrew

When I first started getting into camping, I had no idea what I needed to bring along. And with every trip being different than the other, it can be tough to make sure you always have the right stuff.  Camping in the summer is different than in the winter. Going camping when there’s rain in the…

Hiking Checklist: Essential Gear for Every Adventure
|

Hiking Checklist: Essential Gear for Every Adventure

ByAndrew

Embarking on a thrilling outdoor adventure requires thorough preparation, and having a comprehensive hiking checklist is crucial to ensure you have all the necessary gear for an enjoyable and safe experience. A well-planned list can make all the difference between a memorable excursion and a bad day on the trails. In this ultimate guide, we will…

21+ Camping Safety Tips and 4 Dangers to Avoid

21+ Camping Safety Tips and 4 Dangers to Avoid

ByAndrew

No matter if you’re brand new to camping or you’re a seasoned veteran of the outdoors, there’s one thing that crosses every camper’s mind: is camping safe?  Since it’s typically done on public lands and often in the deep wilderness, there are inherent dangers to be wary of, and it’s important to keep some camping safety…

How Cold is Too Cold For Camping? Plus 8 Tips to Stay Warm

How Cold is Too Cold For Camping? Plus 8 Tips to Stay Warm

ByAndrew

As anyone who frequents Outdoor Andrew knows, I’m an avid camper who’s spent nights in a tent in just about any condition. While camping in the fall and spring might typically be the best time of year because of the weather, you can camp year-round if you know what to look out for.  But what about…