The promise of fresh air and a chance to disconnect from the daily grind in some of the UK’s most idyllic settings, camping trips have a tonne of appeal when you’re looking for a staycation without travelling too far. However, the uncomfortable reality of shivering through the night in a sleeping bag and eating pot noodles can definitely be off-putting! I am not a camping lover by any stretch but I ave definitely recently grown to love it a little more.
So, if the thought of not having access to all your usual home comforts is a little daunting, good news. With a couple of clever ideas shared this post, you can make your camp feel like an extension of your own home!
Set Up a Cosy Sleeping Area
The most important way to ensure your comfort is to choose a high-quality tent. Firstly it should definitely be able to withstand all weather conditions. Feels obvious but some tents aren’t fully waterproof so make sure you check!! It should also be more than big enough to house you and whoever you’re going camping with. If you’re aiming for comfort as well as practicality, I’d opt for a tent at least 2 people bigger than you need. We used to have a small tent and recently upgraded to a 4 man tent which made the whole experience way more enjoyable. There was extra space for sitting, changing and just being able to move freely in the tent without having to go outside.
A barrier between you and the cold earth is a game changer for a good night’s sleep, so invest in a comfortable pad or air mattress. Ditching the basic sleeping bag and opting for sheets, a comforter and pillows can also help create a more familiar sleeping experience, while throw blankets and decorative pillows make for a nice finishing touch. If you are a pro-camper and spend a lot of time travelling, you might want to consider a more permanent setup. I am obsessed with how comfy I have made my bed at home, so taking my Simba Hybrid Essential Topper and Simba Hybrid Pillow are definitely extra luxuries, but I can’t live without them now!
Create a Welcoming Living Space
Beyond the sleeping area, I’d suggest trying to create dedicated living space with chairs, as well as a sturdy folding table you can use for dining or socialising. As mentioned, investing in a bigger tent really allows you to create more space and the feeling of rooms in your camp. You’ll definitely feel more comfortable hanging out at the tent this way, rather than crammed in.
Consider using an outdoor rug to separate the space between the sleeping and living areas, as well minimise dirt tracked into your tent. A cute addition could also be some solar-powered festoon lights to create a warm ambience without the need for power outlets.
Enhance the Atmosphere
If you plan on spending time at camp then a portable Bluetooth speaker is essential. This will just help you set the mood with calming music or upbeat tunes if it’s more of a party situation!
Consider how you might like to entertain yourselves during downtime or spells of bad weather. Having a good book to hand is a good idea, or maybe take some board games or cards to play.
I’d also suggest taking some extra bits of decor if you’re planning on spending significant time there. I’ve seen all sorts of amazing set ups with plants, full gazebo BBQ kitchen set ups; basically whatever enhances your experience and makes you feel more at-home!
Improve Your Dining Experience
Speaking of BBQs! Camping meals needn’t all be cold beans on toast if you invest in a reliable camp stove. Look for a compact, multi-fuel option that can handle gas canisters or wood if you fancy a more rustic experience. Plan ahead and pre-chop vegetables and marinate meat before you leave and keep them fresh in a portable cooler.
When it comes to dining, take some cute plastic plates, bowls and cutlery, and maybe even a tablecloth to elevate your meals from picnics into true al-fresco dining. These things can be easy to forget, but eating dinner with your hands is definitely not going to make you feel relaxed.
By using some of these tips, you could make your camping trip feel super comfortable and homely. Also remember to treat your campsite with the same respect you’d show your home, disposing of rubbish responsibly and minimising the damage you do to your surroundings. Everyone doing this ensures the area remains clean for the next happy campers!
LL x
*This is a contributed post. As ever, all opinions are my own.
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