Over recent years we have seen camping numbers increase, in part as a result of the financial crisis, but as we move to a more financially secure time for many at least, large numbers of people are still getting out and developing a passion for nature, exploring the delights of their local area and camping all across the UK.
How did it all start - A brief history of camping:
Thomas Hiram Holding was once of the first to go the distance, travelling around 1200 miles across America on the first Camping experience.
In 1908 he wrote a book about the experience and everything he had learned so that people today had a better experience. His book ‘Cycle and Camp in Connemara’ led to the formation of the Camping and Caravanning Club still going today.
With past heads being Captain Robert Falcon-Scott who later became known as 'Scott of the Antarctic,' Sir Robert Baden-Powell who went on to form the scouting movement and Dr David Bellamy OBE the famous Naturalist it is notable to see that without the discovery of Camping, the development of outdoor adventure may not be where it is today.
So how can you get the most out of camping?
What you take when you go camping will depend on if you are staying in a campsite or camping in the wild. Either way it always best to be prepared, so we have put together a list for you to ensure you have the best experience.
First things first, following the scout motto ‘Be Prepared’…Write a kit list….
- Number 1 item – A tent
- Have a good sleeping bag
- Roll mat or Inflatable bed
- Camp chairs if you aren’t comfortable sitting cross legged on the ground
- Flip flops – A good idea for the showers
- A utility knife, can & bottle opener
- A cooking stove, with an extra gas canister and cooking utensils (including pots/pans)
- A first aid kit (plasters, bandages, safety pins, mosquito cream/repellant, aspirin, hand sanitizer.)
- Waterproof your bag (line it with something waterproof to protect the contents.)
- If you are staying in campsite…Book one & check it has the facilities you want
- Spare toilet paper – campsites do run out.
- If it’s Summer or really hot…Sun block, a hat & sunglasses.
- Bring tick removers - If you are in the forest it is a possibility you could get them
- A head torch (finding somewhere to go to the bathroom in the night is hard enough without tripping over your tent pegs as well.)
- Entertainment (Games, cards, books, sports equipment) – It is unlikely you will have Wi-Fi so ‘be prepared’
Camping Safely
- Don’t cook in your tent – it may sound obvious but don’t be tempted even if it gets cold outside.
- Don’t leave any disposable BBQ’s in the tent/caravan whilst they burn out – this can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Don’t smoke or light candles in or near your tent – make sure any cigarettes are properly put out.
- Always camp in a campsite unless you have authorized permission to camp – especially in the New Forest as there are wild animals and it may be unsafe.
- Keep your tent well away from any campfires – they do sometimes spit out and it may cause your tent to catch fire.
Research has shown that camping is also great for kids - They learn to slow down, move away from electronic devices and appreciate their environment. They gain skills around self-sufficiency and according to Prof Wright it might even help their body clocks reset?
What do you think?
Based on your experience do children sleep better under canvas?
Has your child developed a love for the outdoors as a result of your last camping trip ?
Not been camping yet and keen to give it a try - come visit us or find a campsite near you.
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