Have you ever wondered what separates a good camping trip from a great one? After 33 years of camping, glamping, and even surviving two rounds of Naked and Afraid, I’ve discovered that success in the wild comes down to preparation, awareness, and a few quirky hacks that’ll save you time, money, and stress.
Whether you're car camping for the first time or you’re a seasoned weekend warrior, these 20 expert tips will help you feel confident, stay safe, and have way more fun outdoors.
1. Flip Your Boots Upside Down
Always place your boots upside down outside your tent. This keeps rain, spiders, and creepy crawlies out. Bonus tip: if you’re using tall boots, stick them into each other—instant waterproof “shoe umbrella.”
2. Enter Your Tent Butt-First
Avoid tracking in dirt by entering your tent arms and backside first. It might feel silly, but it keeps your sleeping space clean—trust us.
3. Mark Tent Stakes with Rocks
Nothing ruins a midnight bathroom run like tripping over a tent stake. Cover them with small rocks or logs so you don’t stub your toes in the dark.
4. Pre-Plan Your Nighttime Bathroom Path
Before sunset, choose a safe and clear path to where you’ll go pee. One stubbed toe can wreck an entire trip—ask me how I know.
5. Always Use a Ground Tarp
Whether you use a built-in tent footprint or a DIY tarp, protecting the bottom of your tent from moisture is essential. You can even place a mini tarp just for your shoes.
6. Check the Surroundings with All Your Senses
Before setting up camp, scan above (for dead tree limbs), around (for poison ivy, animal trails), and below (for ant nests or snake holes). Camping is safer and more peaceful when your site is hazard-free.
7. Pack Fewer Clothes, but Bring Wool Socks
You often need just one outfit for day and one for night. But don’t skimp on wool socks—they’re worth their weight in gold for warmth and comfort.
8. Always Bring Extra Food (and Electrolytes)
You never know what could delay you. Pack nutrient-dense backup meals like Soylent or protein bars and don’t forget hydration supplements for peak energy.
9. Don’t Bring Food Inside the Tent
Not even toothpaste. Animals (and bugs) can smell everything. The only thing that should smell in your tent… is you.
10. Carry a Contractor Trash Bag
This multipurpose tool works as a tarp, waterproof shelter, or even a water carrier. It's one of the most versatile items in your kit.
11. Collapsible Water Jugs Are a Game Changer
Stay hydrated with collapsible water containers—they’re easy to store and refill. And don’t forget water purification tablets or a filter system.
12. Rain Gear: Non-Negotiable
Rain or not, always bring a waterproof layer. Morning dew, surprise storms, or cold wind can quickly turn into a hypothermia risk if you’re not prepared.
13. Monitor the Weather & Fire Alerts
Always check forecasts and local regulations. Fire bans can change daily, and wind conditions can affect your entire setup.
14. Use a Bear-Proof Food Container
Even outside bear country, smell-proof bins protect your food and gear from raccoons, mice, and insects. BareVaults are durable, waterproof, and even make great stools.
15. Invest in a Quality Knife
A sturdy camp knife like the Morakniv is an essential multitool—for cooking, batoning wood, or even just helping you feel safer on solo trips.
16. Bring One Item That Feels Like Home
A journal, art kit, cozy slippers, or favorite snack—bring something that grounds you. Comfort leads to longer, more joyful trips.
17. Lighting Hacks: Go Frosted or DIY
Use frosted solar lanterns to create soft light. No lantern? Wrap a plastic grocery bag around your headlamp for a quick, diffused glow.
18. Crocs Are a Campground Hero
Yes, really. Slip-ons like Crocs make life easier for late-night walks or just hanging by the fire. No judgment—bright yellow banana Crocs encouraged.
19. Prioritize Packing Ease
Chairs, tables, even kitchen kits—go for gear that folds or packs down efficiently. Convenience can be the difference between a headache and a happy hike.
20. Baton Wood Like a Bushcraft Pro
Large firewood? No problem. Use your knife and a second stick to split logs vertically—a technique called batoning. It makes fire-starting way easier and faster.
Final Thought: Confidence Comes from Comfort
Great camping isn’t about roughing it—it's about knowing your needs and meeting them, even in the wild. Whether it’s extra food, your comfiest chair, or the perfect tool for the job, each small decision builds your outdoor confidence.
Bonus Tip: Get a Camping Mattress That Feels Like Home
If you want to really elevate your car camping setup, consider investing in a memory foam camping mattress. Unlike inflatable pads that leak or slide, memory foam stays firm, quiet, and cozy—offering a bed-like sleep under the stars. The Hazli memory foam camping mattress is perfect for SUVs, tents, or even the back of a Subaru. Give your body the support it deserves so you can wake up ready for adventure.