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You'll probably only pick the wrong spot once, but if you do get it very wrong, it can be a disaster (3am flash flood, anyone?).
Campsite planning is an essential part of a successful camping trip, as it can greatly impact the overall comfort and safety of your experience. And choosing the perfect spot for your tent can mean the difference between a good night's sleep and a miserable one.
Plus, get it right, and you'll avoid potential hazards such as strong winds. Here are some tips on how to choose the perfect spot for your tent:
Campsite planning checklist
1. Consider the terrain: Before setting up your tent, take a good look at the terrain and choose a level spot that is free of rocks and roots. Rocks suck when you roll onto one at 1am. A good surface will also ensure that your tent is stable. Pro tip: definitely avoid areas with standing water or low-lying areas that might flood.
2. Check for shade: Depending on where you are, the sun can be scorching during the day, so choose a spot that offers some shade. This should help keep you and your tent cooler – though check how chilly it gets at night before deciding on the best spot.
3. Look for wind protection: Strong winds can make for a poor night's sleep and can even damage your tent. Look for a spot that offers natural wind protection, such as a dense forest or a spot behind a large rock formation. If you've arrived by car, that could work, too.
4. Respect nature: When looking for a spot to set up your tent, make sure you're not disturbing any local wildlife or plant life. Avoid trampling through delicate ecosystems, and make sure you're not setting up camp in an area that's protected or restricted.
5. Distance from amenities: Consider the proximity of your campsite to amenities like bathrooms and water sources. Even though camping is an opportunity to disconnect and be at one with nature, having somewhere to take a pee at midnight can be a godsend.
6. Distance from other campers: When planning your campsite, think about the distance you would like to be from other campers. Some people prefer a more secluded spot to have more privacy, while others might want to be near other campers for a more social experience. Probably best to avoid the local crazy who plays the bongos all night.
7. Check for any regulations or rules: Before setting up camp, make sure you understand any regulations or rules specific to that campsite. This can include guidelines around campfires, noise, or even where you are allowed to pitch your tent.
Campsite planning is an important step to ensure a comfortable and safe camping experience. The more you do it, the better you'll get at it – and one day you'll look back at this blog and think, "Strewth, how could anyone not know all this?" But everyone has to start somewhere :)
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