Expert Advice: A Guide to Camping

Everything You Need to Know for a Perfect Camping Adventure with Helen Skelton & Sean Fletcher

Welcome to the ultimate GO camping guide! Whether you're an experienced camper or gearing up for your first trip, we’ve got you covered. Our ambassadors Helen Skelton and Sean Fletcher have come together with camping expert Ian Mackintosh, to share their insider knowledge to help you pick the perfect tent and nail down the camping essentials for a cosy night under the stars.

Woman walking in a field with tent pitched in the background

From luxury camping must-haves to beginner's guides, tent selection tips, and strategies for getting a good night's sleep, this guide covers all aspects of camping to ensure a successful trip!

So, if you’re preparing for a family getaway, a weekend festival with friends or exploring a national park for a night away, take a look at this guide for top tips and advice to make your camping adventure one to remember!

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Tents Explained

Which tent should I choose? Deciding on the perfect tent can feel like navigating a maze, but don’t worry!

Tents come in various shapes and sizes, each serving different camping needs. There are air tents and pole tents which you need to know the difference between, plus some other key aspects which are useful to know when deciding on a tent.

We're here to simplify the process and help you find the ideal tent for your outdoor adventure. All with the help of our experienced camper Helen Skelton and camping expert Ian Mackintosh.

Air Tents

Air tents, also known as inflatable tents, are known for their quick setup times, as they use air-filled beams instead of traditional poles. This innovative design makes setup a breeze - simply inflate the beams using a pump, and voila, your tent is ready to go in minutes! Not only does this save time and effort, but it also eliminates the hassle of dealing with tangled poles or struggling to fit pieces together. However, air tents do come at a higher price than your traditional pole tent, so it depends on your budget.

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Pole Tents

Pole tents, on the other hand, are generally more affordable and offer a variety of sturdy designs. With their classic pole structure, they offer a traditional camping experience that many outdoor enthusiasts love. While they may take a bit longer to set up compared to air tents, they make up for it with their durability and versatility!

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Tent Berth

Tent berths (6 man tent, 4 person tent, 2 berth tent etc) are based around how many people the tent bedroom can fit side by side. This does not take into account any rucksacks, luggage etc. When choosing your tent, it's best to take into consideration how many people are camping (4 people will be comfortable in a 6-berth tent etc), how much kit you are taking and how many bedrooms you will need.

Porches & Extensions, and Footprints

A tent porch adds extra space to your tent, ideal for extra storage or storing muddy boots. A footprint goes under your tent to protect it from abrasion and moisture from the ground. It can extend the life of your tent significantly, so these are a useful extra to add to your tent!

Camping Essentials

If you are new to camping, it is important to know what to pack to make your trip comfortable and enjoyable.

Our ambassador Sean Fletcher speaks with camping expert Ian Mackintosh to discuss the essentials needed if you’re camping for the first time.

  • Sleeping Bag – The type of sleeping bag you need certainly depends on the season you’ll be camping. You can choose between lightweight summer bags and insulated winter ones to ensure you get a comfortable night’s sleep.

  • Air Bed – A comfortable sleeping surface is certainly key to a good night's sleep. You can opt for an air bed that provides a more luxury level of comfort, making it similar to your bed at home.

  • Sleeping Mat – If you don’t go for an air bed, a sleeping mat is also a good option to sleep on. They are perfect for backpacking or smaller adventures where lightweight gear is paramount.

  • Camping Stove – No camping trip is complete without a portable stove. Whether you're whipping up a feast or just boiling water for a morning cuppa, choose between compact single-burners or larger multi-burner stoves to suit your needs.

  • Camping Chair – A good quality and sturdy camping chair is worth investing in so that you can relax comfortably when you’re on the campsite or at a festival.

  • Torch and Lantern – A lantern is essential for lighting up your campsite in the evening, and a torch comes in really handy for any nighttime trips to the loo!

  • Cookwear and Utensils – Lightweight and durable cookware and utensils will certainly elevate your outdoor culinary experience. From pots and pans to utensils, ensure your culinary is complete for a feast under the stars.

  • Tent Pegs and Mallet – Every tent comes with enough pegs to pitch it, but often there are extra pegging points which are non-essential. Getting a few spares, as well as some heavy-duty pegs for key points, is great for peace of mind and can also help to protect your tent in windy weather. If you're pitching a large tent then a mallet and peg-puller is also a great idea - your hands will thank you for it!

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How can I get a good night’s sleep when camping?

Take a look at camping expert Ian Mackintosh’s top tips on getting a good night’s sleep when sleeping under the stars. These are the essentials needed for a camping trip. But if you’re wanting a full list, why not check out our Camping Checklist below?

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Luxury Camping Must-Haves

If you want to make your camping experience more luxurious, there are a few items you can bring along to add some comfort and style to your outdoor living set up.

Our ambassador and avid camper Helen Skelton, talks about camping luxury must-haves with camping expert Ian Mackintosh.

Leave No Trace

As you venture into the great outdoors, it's important to remember that we all share the responsibility of preserving our planet's natural beauty. To ensure that your camping experience is both enjoyable and environmentally conscious, we have compiled a few tips for you to consider:

  • Avoid disposable BBQs – Instead, invest in a durable, reusable BBQ or stove that will last. Not only will this help reduce waste, but it will also save you money in the long run.

  • Dispose of Waste Responsibly – Pack up all your rubbish, including food scraps, and dispose of them properly in designated bins or take them home with you. Leave nature as you found it, or better!

  • Opt for Sustainable Gear – Opt for tents and gear made from recycled materials. Our Gaia Tent Range, for instance, is made from environmentally friendly materials that are both durable and sustainable.

  • Respect Wildlife – Observe animals from a distance and avoid feeding them. Keep your food securely stored to prevent wildlife encounters, and never approach or disturb nesting areas.

  • Purchase Camping Gear Wisely – When shopping for your camping essentials, try to purchase items which will last - this will avoid throwing away camping gear more often, which can’t be recycled.

Man packing coolbox outside tent

Tips to Follow Before Your First Camping Trip

There are a few things worth remembering before you take your first trip away in your new tent:

  • Check your gear – We aim to supply the best possible camping equipment, however sometimes faults can occur during manufacturing. It's worth checking all the gear you buy to make sure it's ready for use when you get to the campsite. If you find any issues, bring the item back and we'll be happy to help where possible, it's easier to correct these issues before your trip than when you reach your destination.

  • Test pitch your tent – Pitching your tent at home or on a local field will give you an idea of any faults that need addressing, it will also give you valuable practice at pitching.

  • Make a list – We hear stories all the time of people forgetting items, whether it be tent poles or something as simple as a tin opener. Making a list of all the gear you plan to take gives you something to check off as you pack your bag or car.

  • Check the rules – Whether you're going to a campsite, a festival or wild camping, do make sure you check any relevant rules of your stay, to make ensure safety and to make sure all your kit is compliant.

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