Whether you're backcountry camping in the high alpine or staying lakeside at a BC Parks campground, it's the little things that add up to a safer, more comfortable stay.
You gave us the tips, and it's time to share them
Who knew so much camping wisdom was hiding in the comments section?
When we asked our social media community to share their best camping advice as part of the Great Power Smart Hunt contest, they delivered. From clever campsite hacks to must-know outdoor essentials, the responses were packed with practical tips earned through countless nights under the stars.
We couldn't resist putting that collective expertise to good use. So we've rounded up 26 standout tips from fellow campers, ideas that might just earn a spot on your packing list for the next adventure
- Set up a tarp first, rain or shine. It keeps your campsite dry in wet weather and shady on hot days.
- Freeze your meals before you leave. Chili, taco meat or spaghetti doubles as an ice pack, then becomes an easy dinner.
- Freeze water bottles instead of using ice. Your cooler stays drier, food doesn't get soggy, and you end up with cold drinking water.
- Don't pitch your tent in a low spot — or a dry creek bed. Both can become very, wet very quickly.
- Layer your tent floor for warmth. Cardboard, foam puzzle mats or an emergency blanket under your sleeping pad makes a surprising difference on cold ground.
- Sleep in tomorrow's clothes, not today's. Fresh, dry clothes will keep you much warmer than the ones you've been hiking, paddling or sweating in all day. And if you're camping in bear country — especially where grizzlies are present — leave any clothing worn while cooking outside your tent. Food odours can linger on fabric and attract unwanted visitors.
- Put tomorrow's clothes under your pillow. They'll be warm when it's time to get dressed.
- Pack a picnic or leftovers for your first night's dinner. After setting up camp, you'll be glad dinner is already done.
- A doormat outside the tent is worth its weight in gold. It keeps dirt, sand and pine needles where they belong.
- Bring a small broom and dustpan. Someone always forgets to take off their shoes.
- Store food well away from where you sleep. A clean campsite is one of the best ways to avoid unwanted wildlife visitors.
- Tell someone exactly where you're camping and when you'll be home. It's one of the simplest safety tips there is, and it applies in particular to back country adventures.
- Pack for every season — even in August. This is B.C., after all.
- Wear a toque and warm socks to bed on chilly nights. You'll sleep much warmer.
- Try a hot water bottle — or a fire-warmed rock — in your sleeping bag. It’s a camping luxury you'll wonder how you lived without. To safely warm your sleeping bag with a campfire rock, select a dry, non-porous rock (like granite or basalt) the size of a grapefruit. Warm it gently near the fire (not directly in the flames) for 30-45 minutes, then wrap it in a thick wool sock or towel before placing it in the bag.
Toasted marshmallows are great, s'mores might be even better, and have you ever tried reheating a Timbit over a campfire?
- Dry out your sleeping bag every couple of days. Even your breath creates moisture that builds up over time.
- Save dryer lint for fire starters. Waxed egg cartons filled with lint are even better.
- Hang solar string lights around camp. They charge all day and make it much easier to find your way back after dark.
- Turn a headlamp and a water jug into a lantern. Strap the light around a clear jug for soft, campsite-wide lighting.
- Pitch your tent where it misses the early morning sun. A great move if you'd rather sleep in than wake up at dawn.
- A clothesline is camping's unsung hero. Towels, swimsuits and rain gear dry much faster.
- Roast potato chips over the fire. A popcorn basket or hot dog fork turns them into smoky, crispy campfire snacks.
- Warm up Timbits over the campfire. Marshmallows have competition.
- Disconnect from your screens. The best entertainment is often the people — and the stars — around you.
- Leave your campsite better than you found it. Pack out your garbage, pick up litter and respect the outdoors.
- Pack a sense of humour. The rain, forgotten gear and little mishaps usually become the stories everyone remembers most.
