Wild camping can be an exhilarating experience, especially when you decide to venture out alone for the first time. The thought of sleeping under the stars, surrounded by nature, can be both thrilling and intimidating. But fear not! With a little preparation and the right mindset, your first solo wilder camping trip can be a memorable adventure.

Preparing for Your Wild Camping Adventure

Before you head out, it’s essential to plan your trip meticulously. Start by choosing an accessible location that allows wild camping. Research the area, checking for any regulations and safety guidelines. Make a checklist of essential gear: a sturdy tent, sleeping bag, cooking equipment, and a first aid kit. Familiarise yourself with your equipment beforehand to ensure a smooth setup when you arrive. Practise setting up in your garden to make sure there are no missing parts and that everything works as it should.

Embracing the Wildness

Once you reach your destination, take a moment to soak in the beauty around you. Wilder camping allows you to connect with nature on a deeper level. Embrace the solitude; it can be a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. While it’s natural to feel a bit anxious, remind yourself that you are in control of your environment. Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to explore the area during the day.

Safety First

Safety is paramount when wild camping alone. Always inform someone about your plans and expected return time. Keep a charged phone for emergencies, but also consider carrying a map and compass. Familiarize yourself with the local wildlife and take precautions to avoid encounters.

Conclusion

Your first solo wild camping experience can be a transformative journey. By preparing adequately and embracing the beauty of nature, you’ll discover a sense of freedom that comes with being out in the wild. So pack your gear, take a deep breath, and step into the great outdoors. You might just find that wild camping is the adventure you’ve been searching for!

Wood chopping for a campfire can be quite the satisfying experience. Here are a few tips to make sure you do it safely and effectively:

Steps for Wood Chopping

  1. Choose the Right Tools: Make sure you have a sharp axe or hatchet. A dull blade is more dangerous because it requires more force and is more likely to glance off the wood.
  2. Select Suitable Wood: Look for dry, seasoned wood. Wet or green wood is harder to split and doesn’t burn as well.
  3. Safety Gear: Wear protective gear like gloves, sturdy boots, and safety goggles.
  4. Proper Stance and Grip: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart for balance. Hold the axe with one hand near the head and the other hand at the base of the handle.
  5. Aim Carefully: Focus on where you want to split the wood. Aim for the center or along natural cracks in the wood.
  6. Chop with Confidence: Swing the axe over your shoulder and bring it down with a controlled, powerful motion. Let the weight of the axe do most of the work.

Firewood Preparation

  • Split into Smaller Pieces: Large logs should be split into smaller pieces for easier burning. Kindling and smaller sticks are essential to get the fire started.
  • Storage: Keep your firewood in a dry place, stacked off the ground, and covered to protect it from the elements.

Lighting the Campfire

  1. Build a Base: Use small kindling and dry leaves or paper to create a base.
  2. Add Medium-sized Wood: Once the kindling catches, add slightly larger sticks.
  3. Finally, Add Larger Logs: As the fire grows, add larger pieces of wood to sustain it.

Staying warm is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience when camping. Three
popular options to help you stay cozy are the Olpro Blanko, Hygger, and
Sportneer wearable sleeping bags/blankets. Here’s a comparison of their pros
and cons to help you choose the best one for your needs.

Olpro Blanko

Pros:

  • Versatility: The Olpro Blanko can be worn in multiple ways, including as a
    cape, poncho, or traditional blanket. You can still walk about freely.
  • Material: It features a plush Sherpa fleece lining for warmth and a
    durable polyester exterior for water resistance.
  • Portability: Lightweight and easy to pack, making it ideal for various
    outdoor activities.
  • Comfort: Designed to keep you warm without overheating, perfect for
    fluctuating temperatures.

Cons:

  • Limited coverage: While versatile, it may not provide full-body coverage like a
    traditional sleeping bag.
  • Not for extreme cold: Best suited for mild to moderate cold conditions.

Hygger Nanuk Wearable Sleeping Bag

Pros:

Full-Body Coverage: Provides comprehensive warmth from head to toe, ensuring you stay warm throughout the night.

  • Mobility: Designed with zippers for arms and legs, allowing you to move around while staying warm.
  • Temperature Rating: Suitable for colder conditions, often rated for lower temperatures.

Cons:

  • Bulkiness: Can be bulkier and heavier compared to other options, making it less ideal for backpacking.
  • Price: Generally more expensive due to its comprehensive design and materials.

    Click here for information about the Hygger Nanuk

Sportneer Wearable Sleeping Bag

Pros:

Affordability: Offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on essential features.

  • Wearability: Includes zippers for arms and feet, allowing for mobility while staying warm.
  • Material: Made with durable polyester and cotton fill, providing a good balance of warmth and comfort.

Cons:

  • Weight: Weighs around 4.4 lbs, making it less suitable for lightweight backpacking.
  • Temperature Rating: While rated for 20°F (-7°C), it may not be ideal for extreme cold conditions.

     Click here for more information about the Sportneer Wearable Sleeping Bag

Conclusion:

Choosing the right wearable sleeping bag/blanket depends on your specific needs. The Olpro Blanko is perfect for versatile use and mild conditions, the Hygger offers full-body warmth for colder nights, and the Sportneer provides a budget-friendly option with good mobility. Consider your camping environment and personal preferences to make the best choice for staying warm and comfortable on your adventures. And remember you might want to use these together with your standard sleeping bag on those colder nights for a really warm sleep system.

Which one do you think would suit your camping style best?

Wild camping in the UK offers a chance to connect with nature, escape the hustle and bustle, and experience the great outdoors. Whether you’re heading to the rugged hills of Scotland, the rolling countryside of England, or the stunning coastlines of Wales, proper gear is essential for a successful trip. Here’s a guide on what to pack:

1. Shelter and Sleeping Gear

  • Tent: Choose a lightweight, durable tent suitable for the season and weather conditions.
  •  
    • Sleeping Bag: Invest in a quality sleeping bag that keeps you warm. Consider the temperature rating and pack size.
    •  
    • Sleeping Mat: An insulated camping mat provides comfort and insulation from the ground.

2. Clothing Layers

    • Base Layers: Moisture-wicking base layers keep you dry and regulate body temperature.

    • Mid Layers: Fleece or down jackets provide warmth.

    • Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jackets and trousers are essential.

    • Hat and Gloves: Keep extremities warm.

    • Boots: Essential if the ground is not completely dry.

3. Cooking Equipment

    • Stove: Portable camping stoves are compact and efficient.

    • Cookware: Lightweight pots, pans, and mugs for cooking meals.

    • Utensils: A spork or camping cutlery set.
    • 4. Navigation and Safety

    • Map and Compass: Familiarize yourself with the area and have a backup navigation method.

    • First Aid Kit: Include essentials like bandages, antiseptics, and blister treatment.

    • Headlamp or Torch: Essential for nighttime navigation.

    • Emergency Whistle: In case you need to signal for help.

    • Mobile Phone: Keep it charged and have emergency contacts saved.

5. Hydration and Food

    • Water Bottles or Bladder: Stay hydrated.

    • Water Purification: Tablets or filters for natural water sources.

    • High-Energy Snacks: Nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars.

    • Main meals: These can be anything from instant noodles to freeze-dried gourmet pouches, see other blog posts for ideas.

  • 6. Other Essentials

    • Toilet Kit: Trowel for burying waste and pack away any toilet paper.

    • Insect Repellent: Keep those pesky bugs away.

    • Trash Bags: Leave no trace—pack out what you pack in.

    • Torch: Pack spare batteries.

Remember, wild camping is about minimal impact and respecting the environment. Leave no trace, follow local regulations, and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors! 🏕️🌿


The information provided here is for general guidance. Always check local regulations, weather forecast and tailor your gear to the specific conditions of your trip.

Checkout our other blog posts for more detailed information on specific wilder camping topics – related to What to take wild camping in the UK. Here

The Experience Weekend timetable is still being firmed up for 2024 but so far it looks like this …

     

      • June 7 – 9th – “The weekend will be about photographing the natural world in order to understand the relationship between us as the photographer and everything that is around us,” says Ben. – Cumbria

      • June 14 – 16th – Experience Willow Weaving, sensory foraging and introduction to to Emma’s journey in creating a nature based, off-grid healing retreat.  Yurt and hut accommodation options also available – Devon

      • July 12 – 14th – Woodland Survival Skills.  You will learn how to make a friction fire with a bow drill, how to make quality cordage from natural materials as well as other useful campfrie gadgets and a bit of carving for fun – Staffordshire

      • August 20 – 22nd – A full and varied Bushcraft weekend with Lizzi of Pippin and Gile. Probably Sussex, venue to be confirmed

     

    Plus we are still confirming details with:

     

      • Wild Cooking, with Lucy Cooke, The Wild Cook

     

      • Wild Flowers when camping with Jum Langley of Nature’s Work

     

      • Scything and managing hay meadows, with one of our member location owners

     

      • Learning the science behind firelighting, water filtering, projeciles and lots more with Rupert from Feral Science

     

    • Building our confidence in wilder situations with Wilderness Tribe

     

     

    Booking information to come soon, note these camps are members-only. But they offer so much value – it’s worth becoming a member just to get involved!

     

    Full details are listed on the members Community page. For non-members please visit: www.nearlywildcamping.org

    Tent material with water dropplets
    When the call of the wild beckons, you’ll want to be well-prepared for your next adventure. Storing your camping equipment properly is essential to ensure it remains in good condition, ready to go when you need it. Here are some top hacks for storing wild camping equipment to keep your gear in tip-top shape:

    Repairs and restorations

    Clean your camping equipment thoroughly before storing it, following manufacturer instructions. Tents may need special care, including spot cleaning with mild soap and water, while sleeping bags can usually go in the washing machine. Check for wear and tear such as damaged seams, zips, or tent poles, repairing any issues before you put your equipment away. Finish by reapplying waterproofing spray to the outer layers of your tents and jackets.

    Storing wild camping equipment

    Avoiding mould, mildew, and pests

    Before storing, make sure your gear is completely dry to prevent mould and mildew growth. Air-dry tents, sleeping bags, and tarps and be sure to store them in a well-ventilated area. Consider using sealed containers or plastic bins with tight-fitting lids to keep pests at bay, plus repellents like cedar chips or lavender sachets to deter insects and rodents. You may also want to add some silica gel packets which can help absorb moisture.

    Packing tent in storage bag

    Storage techniques

    Tents should be stored loosely, not tightly rolled, to avoid damaging the fabric and waterproof coatings. Store sleeping bags uncompressed in large cotton storage sacks to maintain their loft. Once packed, clearly label your storage containers with their contents so it’s easy to find what you need later. Organise by type and function to quickly access the right equipment for your next wilder camping trip.

    By following these storage hacks, you can ensure your camping equipment remains in great condition.

    Thanks to Hannah Rose-Wynter from Boutique Camping for her tips for putting your wild camping
    equipment away correctly.

    The outdoors is a place of beauty, adventure, and connection with nature. In order to preserve this natural environment for generations to come, it is important to follow the principles of Leave No Trace (LNT) camping ethos.

    Leave No Trace is a set of seven principles that guide outdoor enthusiasts on how to minimize their impact on the environment and leave it pristine for others to enjoy. These principles were developed in the 1960s by outdoor recreation and conservation professionals, and have since been adopted by various organizations around the world.

    The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace

    Plan ahead and prepare: Proper planning can help minimize potential issues such as overcrowding or damage to sensitive areas.

    Travel and camp on durable surfaces: Stick to established paths and camp locations to avoid damaging vegetation.

    Dispose of waste properly: Pack out all rubbish, including food waste, and dispose of human waste properly.

    Leave what you find: Do not take anything from the natural environment, whether it is a rock or a wildflower.

    Minimize campfire impacts: Use existing fire rings and make sure to fully extinguish the fire before leaving.

    Respect wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and do not feed or approach them.

    Be considerate of other visitors: Respect others’ experience in the outdoors by keeping noise levels down and giving them space.

    By following these principles, we can all do our part in preserving the natural beauty of our environment. But it is not just about minimizing our impact, it is also about leaving a positive impact by being good stewards of the land.

    Tips for Practicing Leave No Trace

    Pack out what you pack in: Bring rubbish bags with you and make sure to leave your camp location cleaner than you found it.

    Use a stove instead of making a campfire: This helps minimize the impact on the natural environment and reduces the risk of wildfires.

    Stay on designated paths: Venturing off path can cause erosion and damage to delicate plant life.

    Respect wildlife and their habitats: Do not disturb or approach animals, and make sure to properly secure food to avoid attracting them to your campsite.

    Leave nature as you found it: Resist the urge to take home souvenirs such as rocks, shells, or plants.

    Educate others: Spread the message of Leave No Trace and encourage others to follow these principles.

    Adhering to the Leave No Trace camping ethos not only helps protect the environment, but it also ensures that future generations will be able to enjoy the same natural wonders that we do today.

    So next time you head out into the great outdoors, remember to leave no trace and leave it better than you found it. Happy camping!

    The Leave No Trace principles not only apply to camping, but also to any outdoor activity such as hiking, backpacking, or even just a day trip

    Going on a camping trip with your furry best friend can be the perfect adventure for both of you. But before you hit the road, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. As much as your dog loves being by your side, being in a new environment can be intimidating for them. That’s why we’ve gathered some tips for taking your dog camping to make sure that you and your pup have a fun and safe adventure.

    1. Prepare your dog for the great outdoors

    Before you go camping, start preparing your dog for the new environment. Take them on hikes and walks in the woods and let them get used to the sights and smells of nature. This will help them familiarize themselves with new things and get comfortable in a new place. You’ll also want to make sure they’re up-to-date on their vaccinations, to keep them safe against any potential illnesses they may encounter while out in the wild.

    2. Make a list of essential supplies

    Just like you, your dog will need some gear for camping. Make a list of essential supplies, such as a leash, collar, water bowl, food dish, and poop bags. You may also want to bring a dog bed or blanket to ensure your furry friend stays comfortable throughout the trip. Don’t forget to pack plenty of food, treats, and plenty of fresh water for your pup. It’s important to keep them hydrated, especially when they’re running around in the sun all day.

    3. Choose a dog-friendly camping location

    Make sure to research dog-friendly camp location before you head out. Look for places that allow dogs and offer amenities such as a dog wash and off-leash areas. You’ll also want to ensure that the location has plenty of space for your dog to run around and explore safely.

    4. Keep your pup safe

    When you’re out camping, there are dangers that come with it. From wild animals to unexpected weather, it’s important to keep your dog safe at all times. Bring a pet first-aid kit, and make sure your dog stays on a leash or under your supervision at all times. Use flea and tick prevention and bring your dog’s medications in case of an emergency.

    5. Have fun!

    Taking your dog on a camping trip can be an amazing experience for both of you. Enjoy the great outdoors by hiking with your pup, swimming in a lake, or playing fetch in an open field. Just remember to keep your dog happy and safe so that everyone has fun.

    Camping with your furry friend can be one of the best bonding experiences you’ll ever have. By following these tips for taking your dog camping, you can ensure that your pup stays safe and happy while enjoying nature’s beauty. Make sure to prepare your dog for their adventure, stock up on essential supplies, and find a dog-friendly camp location that’s perfect for your pup. As long as you’re well-prepared and ready to have fun, you and your dog are sure to have an unforgettable trip!

    Going camping is a great way to get back to nature and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And while one of the best parts of camping is being outdoors and enjoying all that nature has to offer, another great part is the food! Camping food can be simple but delicious, and there are lots of recipes that are easy to make with just a few ingredients. Here are 5 recipes that are sure to please any camper’s taste buds:

    1. Sausage and Bean Stew: This hearty stew is perfect for a cold night by the campfire. Simply brown some sausage in a pot, add a can of beans and some veggies (whatever you have on hand), and enough water to cover. Let it all simmer until the sausage is cooked through and the veggies are tender, then enjoy!

    2. Foil-packet potatoes: potatoes, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Wrap everything up in foil and put it directly on the coals of your fire for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft. Then open it up, top with some shredded cheese (if you like), and enjoy!

    3. Campfire Pancakes: flour, eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter. Mix everything together in a bowl and pour it into a greased skillet set over the coals of your fire. Cook for a few minutes on each side until golden brown, then serve with your favourite toppings. Yum!

    4. Dutch Oven Pizza: pizza dough, pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni (or any other toppings you like). Place the pizza dough in the bottom of a Dutch oven that’s been preheated with coals from your fire. Add the sauce and toppings, then top with the cheese. Place more coals on top of the Dutch oven and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Slice into pieces and enjoy!

    5. S’mores: Digestive biscuits, chocolate bars, marshmallows. This classic camping treat needs no explanation! Just roast some marshmallows over the fire (be careful not to burn them!), place them between two biscuits with a piece of chocolate, and enjoy!

    Conclusion – There are so many delicious things that you can make while camping! These 5 recipes are easy to make with just a few ingredients and are sure to please any camper’s taste buds. So next time you’re planning a camping trip, be sure to try one (or all!) of these tasty recipes. Bon appetit!

    Off grid camping is a type of camping where you are not connected to any utilities like water or electricity. This means that you will need to bring all of your own supplies with you and be prepared to camp in a more rustic setting. While this may sound like a lot of work, off grid camping can actually be a very rewarding experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re interested in trying it out.

        1. Be Prepared
          One of the most important things to remember when off grid camping is that you need to be prepared. This means bringing enough food and water for everyone in your party, as well as any other supplies you might need. It’s useful to research the area where you’ll be camping so that you know what to expect. It’s also a good idea to pack some basic medical supplies in case anyone gets injured.

        1. Leave No Trace
          When you’re off grid camping, it’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all of your rubbish, being careful with fire, and respecting wildlife. By following these principles, you can help ensure that everyone can enjoy the outdoors for years to come.
        2. Be prepared for bad weather
          When you’re camping off grid, you need to be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way.

        1. Have Fun!
          Off grid camping can be a great way to unplug from technology and connect with nature. So relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy your time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

      Conclusion:
      If you’re looking for a new camping adventure, why not try off grid camping? It’s a great way to disconnect from technology and appreciate the natural world around us. Just remember to be prepared and practice Leave No Trace principles so that everyone can enjoy the outdoors for years to come.