First time camping in a while, or ever? Here are some helpful hints to make your trip super-smooth, straight from our Camp Sunset field guide.
A good sleeping pad will totally transform your sleep. If you have a spacious tent, a raised camp cot will also make for a super-comfortable night (or a nice nap among the redwoods).
Headlamps are inexpensive, and they make a big difference—especially if you need to pitch your tent after dark. You’ll need both hands for that!
Designate one corner of your garage or closet as your “camping corner.” Keep all of your camp gear there, and it will be that much easier to find before your next trip.
Ice blocks keep food cold much longer than cubes alone. Use large, refreezable ice packs, like the ones made by Arctic Ice, or freeze water in large, flexible-sided Nalgene canteens.
Get our ultimate camping checklist at sunset.com/campsunset, where you can download and print a copy to help you get organized.
But keep them under the rainfly. That way, they won’t get wet if it rains at night.
The campground may not allow fires, and they might not let campers bring in wood from outside the immediate area.
After all, you’re on vacation, right? Camp Sunset includes easy cocktail recipes, like Margarita 1, 2, 3, and ideas for near-instant appetizers.
Read up on how to clean your pans in Camp Sunset, or watch a video on some helpful tips on the best way to clean cast iron.
Leave the campsite cleaner than you found it. Mother Nature will thank you.