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© Copyright Callum Black and licensed for reuse under the Creative Commons Licence

You might think that the camping season is over now that the rain has started to set in, however as long as you are fully prepared, camping can be enjoyable at any time of the year!

Camping trips are a favourite pastime for lovers of the outdoors. But for the wider population, it’s an experience that attracts mixed reviews. It can be an exhilarating experience if you are prepared, or quite an overwhelming experience for those embark on one without proper planning. Some of the best places There are a lot of factors to consider when planning a camping trip. Here are a few important factors which should be taken into consideration prior to embarking on any camping adventure.

Climate and Weather Forecast

This is the first and most crucial consideration. You must think about the climate at the location where you intend to camp. This should inform your choice of clothing as in extreme conditions these choices could be the difference between a heat stroke and hypothermia. Always endeavour to check the weather forecast for the duration of your camping trip as many a camper has been known to end up stranded or lost due to unexpected changes in weather conditions. As a rule of thumb it is advisable to pack several layers of clothing, as keeping warm is more difficult than cooling down.

Transport

Travelling by foot and by car each has its own merits. Two of the most important considerations which should inform your decision are the amount of gear you will need and the size of your party. Travelling by foot is a great option if you are travelling alone or with very little equipment. However, if you are travelling with a group of people, perhaps a family with the need for lots of gear, driving is a more convenient option. In any case, driving provides you with an easy transport should there be an emergency. If you do not own a car, Avis offers affordable car hire services including 4×4 perfect for camping expeditions in our Avis Select Series and Avis Prestige fleet.

Food

Simplicity is advised when it comes to food. While fresh foods can be packed, it should be consumed as soon as possible as it will not stay fresh for long. If you are taking a gas or stove, ensure you have enough gas or fuel for the duration of your camping trip. Remember to pack nutritious processed food which will last longer and less sensitive to the climate in which it is stored.

Campsite

It is important to have a clear idea of where you intend to camp. Recreational campground or off the beaten track, it is important to know the level of facilities and support that is available. Water should be off utmost important – always know where the closest water access is located. Ensure that you know the rules and regulations of your intended camping site as there are usually rule concerning animals, fires, cooking, warmth, emergency procedures and so on. Some of the best campsites in the UK found in Cotsworld, Cornwall, Lake District, New Forest Camping and Devon. Find campsites in the UK

Health

As will all outdoor adventures, accidents are inevitable so a first aid kit is a MUST HAVE, and knowing how to make the most of its contents is just as important as having it in your possession. It is also important to have an emergency plan should a major accident occur.

Plan! Plan! Plan!

This cannot be reiterated enough. To aid the process, creating a checklist is the best way to ensure that nothing is left to chance. All parties taking part in the camping trip should be involved in its planning to ensure that all bases are covered. And ticking off your check list before your embark on your trip.

Plan for Emergencies

Camping trips involve an element of risk by their very nature, so ensure you to share your itinerary with a friend or family member and check in with them on a regular basis so that in the event that you are in difficulty and cannot contact them they can alert the authorities and inform them of your location at you last point of contact.

Though planning camping adventures can be a very tasking and daunting affair, for most lovers of nature and the outdoor, it is absolutely worth it and there are loads to see, do and experience plus the occasional ‘right place at the right time’ opportunity to witness some of nature’s wonders.

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