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Sleeping under the stars is an unforgettable experience.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
For some, the thought of camping is a scarier prospect than a visit to the dentist. However, with good advice and preparation, camping is extremely rewarding.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s something special about embracing the great outdoors; being in touch with nature and enjoying the simple life. And we can help to make your first camping adventure a memorable one.<\/p>\n
These handy tips \u2013 some suggested by our social media followers \u2013 should inspire you to embrace the tent. Happy camping!<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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<\/div>\nMaking a checklist ensures packing is a much easier process.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
Pack wisely:<\/strong>\u00a0While it\u2019s important to have the essentials, there\u2019s no need to pack as if you\u2019re going on a six-month voyage to Antarctica. Avoid stress and be sensible and efficient when packing. And make a\u00a0checklist<\/a>.<\/p>\n The same rule applies if purchasing camping gear. First-time campers can be like novice golfers, feeling the need to spend a small fortune on every single gadget available, down to the ZX4000 ultra-fast tent peg sharpener. While we hope you have repeat usage from your camping gear, it\u2019s costly if you don\u2019t use the equipment much. Keep it simple: buy only essentials items and build on your camping gear as you go.<\/p>\n An ingenious suggestion we received through the\u00a0BIG4 Facebook page<\/a>\u00a0was for first-time campers to choose a campsite within close range of a hardware store. This way, you can easily grab a spare item or three in case you are ill-prepared.<\/p>\n “First-time campers can be like novice golfers, feeling the need to spend a small fortune on every single gadget available, down to the ZX4000 ultra-fast tent peg sharpener.”<\/p>\n Be prepared for rain:<\/strong>\u00a0Conspiracy theorists will tell you Mother Nature likes to play havoc with campers \u2013 some even suggest their mere presence at a campsite could provide relief to drought-stricken areas. To ensure the scoreline is You 1, Mother Nature 0, be prepared for wet-weather camping.<\/p>\n Firstly, check that your tent is rainproof before departure. Pack a raincoat and boots and place a spare set of clothes in a waterproof bag for extra insurance.<\/p>\n Be sure to pack a tarpaulin or two; these are also useful to protect against the sun and wind. And bring along plastic bags and ziplock bags \u2013 they always seem to come in handy for storing items when it rains.<\/p>\n Remember that weather can be interchangeable:<\/strong>\u00a0While the weather forecast might predict a run of warm days, it\u2019s important to be prepared for interchangeable weather when camping. Warm clothes may be even required when camping in summer: in some places, overnight temperatures are capable of plummeting faster than a waterfall.<\/p>\n Year-round items worth packing when camping include earplugs and a comfortable chair.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n Camping can be an extremely enjoyable experience for children.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n Expect all conditions:<\/strong>\u00a0In light of extremes in the weather, be armed with back-up activities in case the elements are not working in your favour. A bored camper is not a happy camper.<\/p>\n Make a cooking checklist:<\/strong>\u00a0Remember that you might not have access to all your regular cooking utensils and equipment \u2013 so make a\u00a0checklist<\/a>\u00a0of essential items. Be practical: plastic or disposable cutlery, crockery, mugs, and cups are ideal when camping.<\/p>\n “A bored camper is not a happy camper.”<\/p>\n Invite experienced campers to join you:\u00a0<\/strong>If you have trepidation about going alone, coax experienced campers to come along for the ride\u00a0\u2013 they may be able to share valuable advice.<\/p>\n Consider a trial run:<\/strong>\u00a0Particularly if camping with children. Even a simple exercise like pitching a tent in your backyard can go a long way to making it easier when it comes time for the \u2018real thing\u2019.<\/p>\n A trial run in the backyard is a great way to prepare yourself for camping.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n Check the ground:<\/strong>\u00a0Before you set up, check the ground under which the tent will stand and clear away any loose objects. This will ensure greater comfort.<\/p>\n Prepare for rain (again):<\/strong>\u00a0If it\u2019s raining, keep bedding and other items away from the walls of your tent to avoid rain leaking through to the inside. We won\u2019t explain the exact science behind it, but trust us \u2013 this simple advice will save you a world of pain.<\/p>\n Be aware of restrictions during fire season:<\/strong>\u00a0Conversely, be aware of fire bans and restrictions in the area you are travelling, otherwise you could be up for a hefty fine. Of greater concern, you don’t want to be responsible for starting an out-of-control fire.<\/p>\n Socialise with fellow campers:<\/strong>\u00a0Don\u2019t be shy when camping \u2013 socialise with your fellow campers. It\u2019s enjoyable and you may even pick up some handy hints along the way.<\/p>\n “If it\u2019s raining, keep bedding and other items away from the walls of your tent to avoid rain leaking through to the inside.”<\/p>\n Still not convinced? Well, there\u2019s a suitable compromise thanks to the emergence of \u2018glamping\u2019 (glamorous camping). With this trend you can experience the joys of \u2018roughing it\u2019 without having to forsake any of your creature comforts. It\u2019s a win-win situation!<\/p>\n Several\u00a0BIG4 Holiday Parks offer safari-style tents<\/a>\u00a0that fall straight into the glamping category. This accommodation option comes complete with ready-made tents \u2013 no setting up is required \u2013 and some even include amenities such as a shower, fridge, and microwave.<\/p>\n Safari tents\u00a0provide an extra level of comfort.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n Isn\u2019t it time you began creating priceless camping memories? Book your BIG4 camping holiday now.<\/p>\n\u00a0![\"\"](\"http:\/\/internal.clientcommunity.com.au\/uploaded\/level\/2063\/big4-image3.jpg\")
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<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\nPart two: When at your campsite.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Consider an upgrade<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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