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Beginner Camping Top 15 Tips and Tricks

UK camping is the best way to experience the outdoors and take in nature’s beauty. Here are our top 15 tips and tricks for beginner camping.

There’s nothing better than being able to stargaze in the evening and wake up to the birds singing in the morning.

It’s great for family trips too, as there is lots of space for them to play and run around.

Are you a beginner and have never been camping before? Then read our beginner camping tips and tricks for tent camping below!

1. Test drive

If you’re new to camping, then it’s a good idea to test out your camping gear and pitch your tent in your garden or living room.

This helps to make sure everything is in working order before you head off to your campsite.

2. Camp Close To Home

It’s always good to start off with baby steps, meaning, choosing a campsite close to home. This is a good idea just in case anything happens, and you can get home quick.

3. Check Out Our Reviews

It can be daunting looking for campsites and knowing which ones suit you best, which is why you should always read reviews.

Why not read our 525 5-star TripAdvisor reviews?

4. Pets Or No Pets

Taking your dog/s with you on your first camping trip may be tricky, so it could be worth thinking about leaving them at home.

If you’re set on bringing your four-legged-friend with you, then make sure to include them on the home trial run.

Well behaved dogs are welcome onto Sumners Ponds campsite but should remain on a lead at all times.

5. Buy Cheap Buy Twice

Spending a little extra on good quality and comfy camping chairs, sleeping bags, tent, etc., will add to a great camping experience.

6. Mosquito Repellent

You do not want to get stuck swatting mosquito’s every five seconds and get bitten through the evening and night – so always bring mosquito repellent, whether that’s spray, candles or bracelets.

And don’t forget a spray or cream to soothe the bites!

7. Make Meals Ahead Of Camping

To get the most out of your camping holiday, preplanning and prepping your meals can help.

It reduces having to cook from scratch at the camp stove, which most likely won’t work as well as your kitchen stove at home.

It also means you can spend more time with your loved ones!

8. First Aid Kit

Always, always bring a first aid kit with you. You never know when you’ll need those blister plasters, antiseptic wipes or tweezers!

9. Bring A Case Of Drinking Water

Don’t forget to stay hydrated whilst camping, especially in the summer (no one wants heatstroke!).

Bringing a large case of drinking water will be better than a couple water bottles, especially if the water source is a walk away.

10. Earplugs

These are one of the camping essentials that many people forget about. To stay fresh for the day ahead, you need a good night’s sleep, and there is nothing worse when there is a dog barking, a baby crying or a partner snoring when you’re trying to sleep!

11. Arrive Early

Make sure you arrive with enough time at the campsite, so we can guide you to your camping pitch, and you can set up before dark with enough time to enjoy the surrounding Sussex beauty. 

12. Bring A Hammer/Mallet

It can be very difficult to put tent pegs into the ground, so bringing a hammer or mallet will come in handy!

13. Bring Games And Plan Outdoor Activities

This is the perfect time to reconnect with your friends or family, without any devices.

Games and outdoor activities will help pass the time, and you can learn to love the basics again!

14. Be Ready For The British Weather

We all know how unpredictable the British weather can be, so don’t forget to check the forecast and pack for the unexpected.

15. Dry Out Your Tent Before Storage

One of our most important tips: always dry out your tent before storing it away.

This prevents mould and unpleasant smells from forming.

Visit our website for more information and to book your stay at Sumners Ponds!

Quick Enquiry

Disabled Friendly

Sumners Ponds is a accessible fishery for those with a disability. The best lakes to fish are either Farm Pond or Betty’s Lake.

Farm Pond has a purpose built accessible platform with a ramp from the ajoining car park. This spaceous decked area has three large swims which are all disabled priority. The car park for this lake is directly next to the closest fishing swims so there is not far to travel with your equipment.

Betty’s Lake has two disabled parking areas which are very close to the nearest wood-chipped swims.