How to Make Camping More Comfortable

Five Essential Camping Tips

Whether you’re new to camping or a seasoned pro, these essential camping tips are a must.

1. Choose a good campsite.

The right campsite can make or break a trip. When it comes to your home away from home, consider the following criteria.

• Location: Look for a site that is easy to access. Can you drive there? Or do you need to hike in gear? Are you planning to tent or bring a trailer? Consider the local climate and weather. Is the campground situated in a rainshadow or dry desert? At sea level or elevation? Before you leave, look up reviews of your preferred campsite on websites like Hipcamp and the Dyrt. You might just learn if it’s prone to swarms of bugs! 
• Topography: Pitching a tent starts with the right pad. Opt for ground that is flat, shaded, and free of rogue roots and rocks. Pro tip: look for sites with natural windbreaks that can shield you from gusts and rain, and avoid dense, low-lying bushes where unwelcome critters hang out.
• Amenities: Basic amenities like washrooms, potable water, and trash bins may not sound glamorous, but they’ll save you a million little hassles over the course of your camp trip. 
• Activities: A scenic view is nice, but a fun location is better. Book a campsite with on-site or nearby activities to keep boredom at bay and young minds entertained. For kids, stay at campgrounds with ranger programs, playgrounds, sandy beaches, and wide, flat trails. Hoping to hike, bike, or paddle? Choose a site close to the trailhead or lake (bonus points if they’re steps from the tent).

2. Invest in good gear.

Good gear doesn’t have to mean top-of-the-line—it just has to work well. The best camping gear for comfort? You’ll need the basics: a good tent, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag. 

• Tent: Planning to share a tent? Size up for extra elbow room and space for your bag, boots, and extras (like full-size pillow). Not sure how to keep your tent warm at night? Insulate with a groundsheet and set up a fly to block any wind or rain.
• Sleep system: Don’t skimp on your sleeping pad. Thick, comfy sleeping pads are crucial to catching zzz’s in the wilderness. Add a warm sleeping bag rated to your climate and a good camp pillow. Pro tip: for even more comfort, bring an extra foam pad for additional cushioning. 
• Waterproof your campsite: There’s nothing worse than an unexpected bout of rain while camping—unless you’re prepared for it. Besides a waterproof tent, it’s a good idea to invest in waterproof boots and a rainshell. You might want to stash a few tarps in your camping kit, too. (No one likes to make food in the rain).

3. Pack smart.

You’ve got the gear. You’ve booked the site. Now it’s all about packing smart. Learn what to bring to make camping more comfortable:

• Clothes: Outside, layers are key. Even at the height of summer, nights can get chilly. Bring light, layerable pieces like a button-down, soft shell, or light windbreaker. Pro tip: thick socks are the undisputed MVP of camp—bring extras and stay cozy all day long.
• Bring a comfy camp chair: Camp is only as comfy as you make it. To really make yourself at home, you’ll want a good camp chair. The best ones are sturdy, padded, easy to set up, and supportive—perfect for fireside chats and slow mornings sipping coffee. 
• Lighting: Cozy upgrades like string lights can make late nights around the fire even more magical, while a reliable LED headlamp is crucial for midnight outhouse runs. 

4. Elevate your camp kitchen.

Camp meals can be simple and delicious. There’s something about eating al fresco that makes food taste better. You’ll need the basics—a bowl, mug, utensils, and camp stove—but to really elevate your camp meals, consider these tips:

• Upgrade your cooking setup: From cutting boards and a good knife to BBQs and hibachi grills, the opportunity to dial in your camp kitchen (and meals) is endless.
• Pack a sturdy cooler: There’s nothing worse than soggy hotdogs. A well-insulated cooler is crucial for keeping things cold all weekend long. 
• Go gourmet: Cast iron pizza? Fireside ramen? Indulgent s’mores? Pour over coffee? Challenge yourself to make campfire culinary masterpieces worth bragging about.

5. Bring games and creature comforts.

Camping doesn’t come without its inconveniences. Creature comforts can ease forecast blues, boredom, and homesick moments, especially for kids or first-time campers. Whether it’s your favourite comic book or a Bluetooth speaker, these non-essential but coveted extras offer a slice of home:

• Pack games: Card games, travel puzzles, or classic charades are perfect for filling downtime at camp.
• Bring a luxury item: A “just-for-fun” item (think stuffed animals, game consoles, or a Kindle) can help acclimate kids and reluctant campers.
• Cozy it up: Bring a cozy camp blanket or a pair of slippers and be the envy of your neighbours.

Bonus: practice! Before you head out, do a trial run in your backyard. You’ll quickly find out what’s necessary, what’s not, and where you can add more comfort.