A Cozy and Stress-Free Adventure
Camping is one of my favorite ways to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Over the years, I’ve picked up some simple hacks that make the experience more comfortable, organized, and fun. I also have My Camping Guide that is packed with tips and tricks to help you enjoy your time outdoors to the fullest.
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| Relaxing at a beautiful campsite in Escalante Canyon, Colorado, complete with a cozy campfire and stunning red rock views. |
1. Keep Bugs Away with Sage
Throw sage into your campfire to help keep mosquitoes and bugs at bay. It smells amazing and works like a charm. For extra bug control, sage-scented candles can add a cozy, homey vibe to your campsite.
2. Warm Clothes in the Morning
Stuff your next-day clothes into your sleeping bag at night. Not only will they be warm when you wake up, but they also double as extra insulation while you sleep.
3. Frozen Water Bottles Over Ice
Here’s a lesson I learned the hard way: melted ice equals soggy food. Even when I tried putting ice in Ziploc bags, it always seemed to leak. Opening my cooler to waterlogged sandwiches and soaked snacks was not the kind of adventure I had in mind. Now, I freeze water bottles instead. They keep everything cold, there’s no mess, and as they melt, I’ve got refreshing drinking water. Win-win!
4. Crack Eggs Ahead of Time
Pre-crack eggs and pour them into a plastic bottle before you head out. This saves time, prevents mess, and makes cooking scrambled eggs super easy.
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| Cracked eggs stored in a plastic bottle make outdoor cooking easy and mess-free. A simple hack for your next camping adventure! |
5. Foam Play Tiles for Tent Comfort
Place foam play tiles under your tent. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and add an extra layer of comfort and insulation.
6. Bring Your Regular Pillow
I’ll admit it—I’ve forgotten my pillow before. Let me tell you, using bunched-up clothes in a bag didn’t work. I spent the whole night tossing and turning, trying to find a comfortable position. The next morning, I felt like I’d slept on a rock. Now, my pillow is the first thing I pack. Trust me, it’s worth the space in your car for a good night’s sleep!
7. Plastic Storage Bins for a Sink
Don’t bother with a fancy sink bucket. A plastic storage bin works great for washing dishes, and you can use it to store gear when it’s not in use.
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| Keeping it clean while camping—utilizing a two-bin system for washing dishes at a well-stocked picnic table in the great outdoors. |
8. Lint as a Fire Starter
Save dryer lint and bring it along as a lightweight and effective fire starter. Pair it with some homemade fire starters for quick campfires, even in damp conditions. I use cotton balls and petroleum jelly for mine.
9. Tarps Are Your Best Friend
Always pack a tarp or two. They’re perfect for creating a rain shelter, protecting your tent floor, or even serving as an emergency picnic blanket.
10. Solar Lights for Ambiance
Place solar lights around your campsite for safety and ambiance. They’re reusable, eco-friendly, and make your campsite feel magical.
11. Make It Homey
Bring items that make your campsite feel inviting. Sheets and comforters are a game-changer—skip the sleeping bag when it’s warm enough. Add candles (in safe holders) and an outdoor rug for a cozy touch.
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| Add a cozy glow to your campsite with DIY mason jar candle lanterns—simple, stylish, and perfect for outdoor evenings |
12. Camp Chairs Over Logs
Don’t rely on a log for seating. A comfortable camp chair will make evenings around the fire so much more enjoyable.
13. Must-Haves for Cold Weather
- Extra blankets or a sleeping bag liner for added warmth.
- Hand warmers for inside your gloves or boots.
- Insulated mugs for your coffee or tea—nothing beats sipping something warm on a chilly morning.
Camping doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or complicated. A little prep and a few clever hacks can make all the difference. Have any favorite camping hacks I didn’t include? Drop them in the comments—I’m always looking for new tips!
