5 mistakes almost every novice camper makes (and how to avoid them)

Camping is one of the best ways to get out and about. Whether you’re heading to the Veluwe for a weekend or planning a longer road trip through Scandinavia, good preparation makes all the difference between a relaxing holiday and unnecessary frustrations. 

At CheapOutdoor, we regularly speak to novice campers who say afterwards: “If only I’d known that sooner.” That’s why we’ve listed the five most common camping mistakes for you, along with tips on how to easily avoid them. 

1. Choosing a tent that doesn’t suit your holiday

One of the biggest mistakes is buying a tent that doesn’t actually suit your camping style. 

Are you travelling to the campsite by car? Then a spacious family tent is often a better choice than an ultra-light trekking tent. If, on the other hand, you’re spending several days hiking through the mountains with a rucksack, every kilo counts. 

So don’t just consider the number of people, but also: 

• the weight of the tent
• the time it takes to pitch
• the living space
• ventilation
• weather resistance 

Do you go camping regularly in the summer? If so, a tent with a blackout sleeping compartment, such as the Husky Blackroom series, can ensure a much more comfortable night’s sleep. 

2. Cutting back on your sleeping comfort

Many people invest heavily in a nice tent, but forget that a good night’s sleep is just as important. 

A comfortable sleeping mat not only makes lying down more comfortable, but also provides a large part of the insulation. Combine this with a sleeping bag suited to the expected temperatures and, if necessary, a compact camping pillow. 

A good night’s sleep means you’ll have more energy the next day for walking, cycling or simply enjoying your holiday. 

3. Not being prepared for changeable weather

The weather can change quickly. Even during a sunny summer holiday, you may encounter heavy showers or chilly evenings. 

So always make sure to pack: 

• a raincoat
• warm clothing
• a change of dry clothes
• a waterproof storage bag or dry bag
• a good head torch 

This will prevent an unexpected downpour from ruining your holiday.

4. Packing too much or too little

Novice campers often either take far too much with them or forget essential kit. 

So make a checklist in advance. Think of: 

• tent and pegs
• sleeping bag
• sleeping mat
• cooking equipment
• lighting
• first-aid kit
• power bank
• water bottle
• multi-tool 

By ticking everything off in advance, you won’t be caught out by any surprises. 

5. Only use new items on holiday

Pitching a new tent for the first time at the campsite just as it starts to rain? It happens to more people than you might think. 

So always try out new camping gear at home first: 

• pit the tent up once
• inflate your air mattress
• check that all the pegs are there
• test your head torch
• check that your camping stove works properly 

That way, you can set off on holiday with peace of mind. 

Well prepared for adventure 

Camping doesn’t have to be complicated at all. With the right kit and good preparation, you can avoid the most common problems and enjoy the great outdoors to the full. 

Whether you’re going camping for the first time or are a seasoned camper, investing in high-quality outdoor kit always pays off in terms of comfort, safety and enjoyment. 

At CheapOutdoor, we’re happy to help you find the right tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat and all the other camping essentials for your next adventure. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the biggest mistake novice campers make?

Choosing a tent that doesn’t suit their camping style. Think carefully in advance about the number of people, the destination and the type of holiday. 

What camping gear is absolutely essential?

A good tent, a comfortable sleeping mat, a suitable sleeping bag, lighting, a first-aid kit and waterproof storage options form the basis of any camping kit. 

Why is a sleeping mat so important?

A sleeping mat not only provides comfort but also insulation against the cold ground. This means you’ll sleep warmer and more comfortably. 

Should I pitch my tent at home first?

Yes. By pitching your tent once beforehand, you’ll know how it works and avoid any surprises at the campsite.