There’s nothing quite like a summer camping trip—fresh air, starry skies, and the freedom to do as much or as little as you like. But even the most seasoned campers know that a little preparation (and a few clever hacks) can make all the difference between a good trip and a great one. Whether you’re pitching a tent for the first time or you’re a camping pro, here are our top 10 camping hacks to help you make the most of your next adventure.
- Pack Smart with Clear Boxes
Ditch the endless rummaging—store your essentials in clear plastic boxes so you can see exactly where everything is. Label them by category (cooking gear, toiletries, games), and you’ll save time every day. Smaller boxes are perfect for first-aid supplies or electronics, while larger ones can hold dry food or bulky items like blankets. Stacking them in your car also helps you make the most of your boot space.
- Bring a Head Torch (or Two)
A head torch is a must-have for any camping trip. Keep your hands free while you cook, read, or navigate back to your pitch after dark. It’s worth bringing a backup torch or a lantern for inside the tent too, and make sure you check the batteries before you leave. If you have kids, give them their own torches—they’ll love the sense of adventure.
- Use Foam Floor Tiles in Your Tent
Lay down interlocking foam mats under your sleeping area. Not only will they insulate you from chilly ground, but they make things comfier underfoot. They’re especially handy if you’re camping with toddlers or crawling babies. You can pick up affordable foam tiles online or in DIY stores, and they’re lightweight enough to carry without any hassle.
- Be Prepared
As any good scout will tell you, preparation is paramount. Make a list of all the essential items before you start packing and tick them off as you go. Check your tent before you set off for any holes or damage as nothing can affect a nights sleep like a leaky tent if the heavens decide to open. Also make sure you have all the pegs and a few spares as well as mallet to get them into the ground, especially if the ground is dry and hard.
If you do forget anything, our on park shop stocks all the camping essentials you’ll need to ensure a drama free trip.
- Make a DIY Lantern
Create a simple ambient light feature for the perfect relaxing atmosphere for your camping trip. Fill an empty milk jug or large water bottle with water and strap a head torch around it with the light facing inwards. The water diffuses the light, creating a soft glow that’s perfect for reading, card games, or winding down before bed rather than having to stare in the torch of your tent mates like you’re under interrogation.
- Keep Your Cool
Freeze a few large bottles of water before your trip ready to throw in to your cool bag. They’ll keep your food cool for longer, reduces the need for bulky ice packs and when they finally melt – you’ve got fresh drinking water ready to go.
- Pack Microfibre Towels
They dry in no time, fold up small, and are perfect for everything from shower trips to impromptu swims or wiping down your tent. Microfibre towels are also great for drying dishes or cleaning up spills, and you can pick them up cheaply from outdoor stores. Bring a few in different colours so everyone knows whose is whose.
- Arrive During Daylight
Even the most experienced camper knows that putting up a tent in the dark in a torch lit scramble is like performing a bad magic trick – things disappear, ropes get tangled, and tempers flare. Arrive at you pitch with plenty of time to set up camp before the sun sets, giving everyone time to help out and settle in for a stress-free start to your trip.
You’ll also become instant friends with your camping neighbours having not disturbed them by not hammering in tent pegs at midnight!
- Bring a Shoe Basket
Set a plastic tub or basket outside your tent or caravan door. It keeps shoes tidy and stops muddy footprints from creeping inside. You can even put a doormat or an old towel next to it to help
- Leave No Trace
One of the best camping habits is respecting nature. Bring bin bags to take all your rubbish home or to the recycling point, and pack reusable plates and cutlery to cut down on waste. Teach little ones to spot wildlife from a distance and leave plants and rocks where they are. A clean pitch makes everyone’s experience better—and keeps the countryside beautiful.
Ready for Your Next Camping Adventure?
If you’re feeling inspired to put these hacks to the test, why not book a stay at our 5-star campsite here at Cofton Holidays? Nestled between rolling Devon hills and the coast, our spacious pitches, heated shower blocks, and fantastic facilities make camping feel effortless. Whether you’re planning a long summer holiday or a spontaneous weekend escape, you’ll find everything you need right on your doorstep—from an outdoor pool and delicious on-site restaurants to miles of country walks and tranquil fishing lakes.
So pack your tent (and your new tricks) and join us for a summer break you’ll remember forever.
