Camping can be great fun, or a holiday from hell. Good preparation is the key to a successful camping experience.

There are many different ways to approach camping from a simple small tent and a billy can to elaborate set-ups with multi-room tents, protective tarpaulins and everything including the kitchen sink! If your plan is to camp in a national park for a night or two, then a smaller set up is more appropriate. If you’re heading off for two weeks with the family, then you’ll likely want to prepare carefully.

Checklists

Writing a checklist or three in advance can take the stress out of packing. Be aware of predicted weather conditions, although be prepared for the unexpected. Keep in mind the length of time you intend to be away and the style of camping you wish to do. Dividing your checklists into Clothing and Personal Items, General Camping Equipment, Food and Entertainment can simplify things.

Clothing

When compiling your clothing list, make sure you have all weather conditions covered. Try to keep it simple though. If the weather conditions are supposed to be warm, there is no need to throw in more than one jumper. Wet weather gear is essential – weather can be unpredictable and getting caught without a jacket on the way to the toilet block (or behind the bush) can put a real dampener on your trip. Toiletries, towels, insect repellent, sunscreen and some toilet paper are all necessities, as are garbage bags to either isolate wet clothing or to leave the camping area as clean as possible for future visitors. A good pair of walking boots and/or wet weather boots can make muddy trails navigable.

Camping equipment

The camping basics include a tent, sleeping bags, mattresses and pillows, tarpaulin for shade or rain protection and cooking equipment. Packing a first aid kit is a must – check how far you will be from medical services before you leave and make sure your first aid kit is well stocked if the nearest doctor isn’t for miles.

Food

Keeping food simple is a good idea when camping. Meals that take little preparation and ingredients that are easy to keep fresh are ideal. Dried fruits, muesli bars, cereals and nuts all keep well and don’t require refrigeration. Tins of beans and evaporated milk transport easily. Plan your meals and try not throw in too many extras, carting food to a campsite and then taking it home again can be a waste of time and energy.

Entertainment

Consider what activities you are intending to do before you leave and make sure you have everything you need with you. Think things like fishing equipment, ball games and binoculars and always take some wet weather alternatives such as playing cards and pencils and paper for children. A thorough check of all equipment before it goes in the car is advisable – there’s no point taking a gas bottle if it’s empty. It is also advisable to pack a repair kit for all vital gear like your tent, sleeping mattress and camp stove. “Are we there yet?” is a common question from children. Pack a DVD player or hand-held game console for the road trip. Spare batteries are a good investment.

Prepare for the next trip

Once you’ve done your first trip, make a list of anything you forgot or anything you think might make your next trip more successful. Also make a note of which meals were easiest and which you wouldn’t bother doing again. After you get back home, take the time to clean your equipment well and pack things away together where possible. Storing things well labelled and in an organised way will make any subsequent camping trips that much easier.

Don’t be daunted by the prospect of camping out. If you feel nervous at the thought of camping alone, join an organisation or group and travel in convoy. And don’t forget, there is still the option of camping in style in a caravan park. Choose the camping holiday that suits you.