Camping is becoming more and more popular every year, with more people choosing a ‘staycation’ at Holiday Parks Bala.

With the right camping essentials you can now go on holiday without breaking the bank and can go on trips with your family and friends in years to come.

If you are particularly new to camping this guide will point you in the right direction with all the things you need to know for your first successful camping trip away.

Different Camping Types

Campsite Camping

Campsite camping is one of the most popular choices when it comes to camping. This type of camping requires a camper or a tent where you pay for a pitch on a campsite for a period of time and this can range from large families to couples. By having a dedicated pitch you can have your own space and be surrounded by other campers and you are usually able to park up next to your tent. All Holiday Parks Bala are different and it is good to check before you arrive to know what their rules are. This doesn’t just apply to parking but also the size of tent you can bring and whether it is dog friendly or not.

Festival Camping

Festival camping differs depending on which festival you go to, however, generally they aren’t split into separate pitches and is usually a first come first served basis when finding the ultimate camping spot. One thing to note with festivals that you won’t be able to park your car anywhere near your tent so you need to take this into consideration when carrying all your gear from the car to the campsite. Festival campers generally pack lighter and that means smaller tents, camping alone or with a friend.

Wild Camping

Wild camping is all about heading out and finding a spot in the wild. If you’re into wild camping you probably just know it as regular ‘camping’ and it is usually back to basics with all your equipment inside or attached to your rucksack. If you are thinking about wild camping remember to seek permission from the landowner first and it is important that you don’t leave any mess behind, as if nobody knew you were there.

Glamping

Glamping is a new player and can be quite different to regular camping. Glamping is the luxurious side of camping and generally includes electric and mod cons as well as pre-pitched tents such as Yurts or Teepees. Glamping sites are popping up everywhere around the UK now and are a fantastic idea for those who don’t like the idea of ‘roughing it’ and having a little more luxury in the great outdoors.

What Size Tent

Tent sizes are based around how many people can fit inside them (6 man, 4 man, 2 man), however, this doesn’t account for any rucksacks or luggage. So when choosing your tent it’s best to take these into consideration:

·         How many people are camping

·         How much you are taking with you

·         How many bedrooms you might need (usually for larger groups and families)

·         Does you campsite has limitations on size

What Do I Need

If you are new to camping is good to have the bare essentials and borrow from other campers is possible. If you find that you enjoy camping you can splash out a bit more and build up your kit so you can really have your home away from home.

Before Leaving

Before you leave, it is important that you check your camping stuff over. It’s a good idea to test pitch your tent so that you know how to put it up and see that it is in good working order. The last thing you want is to arrive in the rain with an unusable tent. It is good to also make a list when you are packing to ensure that you have everything you need for your trip. We are all guilty of forgetting things so check everything from your tent poles to having a tin opener. You can then check this off as you pack your car up.

Cooking Outdoors

Cooking outdoors is one of the most memorable things about camping. Think about how you are going to cook, barbeque, camping stove or a tiny backpacking stove, there’s plenty of different options. But most importantly, remember to bring cutlery, plates, cups and something to cook in!