Camping Guide: Everything you need to know for your next adventure
It was a September evening somewhere in the Black Forest. I was sitting in front of my tent, the sun was just disappearing behind the trees, and the water for my tea was hissing softly from the camping stove. The air already had that autumnal coolness you never feel in the height of summer. No cell phone reception, no appointments, just the chirping of birds and the gentle crackling of the small campfire beside me. In that moment, I understood: camping is so much more than just sleeping outdoors.
It's this special blend of freedom, simplicity, and an intense connection with nature that keeps drawing me back. Away from everyday life, into adventure – and it doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're camping for the first time or you're already an experienced outdoor enthusiast, camping offers everyone the chance to experience the world a little slower and more consciously.
Let's go through together what you should know for your next camping adventure – from equipment and planning to the small details that make all the difference.
Types of Camping
Not all camping is the same. Depending on what's important to you and how much comfort you need, there are different options.
Tent camping: Classic and flexible
The good old tent is, for me, the purest form of camping. You're mobile, flexible, and can theoretically set up camp anywhere. A modern trekking tent is light enough for longer hikes, yet still offers protection from wind and weather.
For beginners, I recommend a dome tent – it's easy to pitch, stable, and offers enough space for one or two people. Make sure it has a good hydrostatic head rating (at least 3,000 mm) and a separate flysheet to prevent condensation from becoming a problem.
Motorhome & Vanlife
For those seeking more comfort, a motorhome or a campervan conversion is the ideal solution. The advantage is obvious: you always have your bed, kitchen, and often even a small shower with you. This is especially practical for longer trips or families with children.
Van life has experienced a real boom in recent years. On Instagram, it all looks idyllic – and yes, it is great. But it's also more expensive and less flexible than tent camping. Narrow forest tracks or remote mountain trails are often inaccessible with a van.
Wild camping vs. campsite
This is where things get a bit complicated legally. In Germany, wild camping is generally not allowed – with exceptions depending on the federal state. In Scandinavia, however, it is often permitted under the right of public access. Austria and Switzerland also have different regulations.
My tip: Check the local laws beforehand. Many farmers allow camping on their fields if you ask politely. Platforms like "Landvergnügen" or "1nitetent" can help you find such campsites.
Campsites offer infrastructure: toilets, showers, electricity, and often even Wi-Fi. For camping beginners, this is a relaxed way to get started. You meet other campers, can test your equipment, and have the peace of mind that help is nearby.
Equipment – what really matters
The right camping equipment doesn't have to be expensive, but it should work reliably. Here are the basics.
The basics: Quantature tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat
Your tent is your mobile home. Pay attention to quality, especially the seams and zippers. A broken zipper in the rain is no fun – believe me, I speak from experience.
Your sleeping bag should be appropriate for the season. A lightweight summer sleeping bag is sufficient in summer, while in autumn or spring you'll need a three-season sleeping bag. Pay attention to the comfort temperature, not the extreme temperature – the latter only indicates the temperature at which you could (theoretically) survive.
Sleeping mats are often underestimated. They insulate you from the cold ground and make the difference between a restful night and back pain in the morning. Self-inflating mats are comfortable, while foam mats are more durable and cheaper.
Cooking & Eating
For me, cooking outdoors is one of the best parts of camping. A simple gas stove is perfectly sufficient – compact, reliable, and quick. Add a small set of pots, pans, and cutlery.
What to cook? Simple, nutritious dishes: pasta with tomato sauce, porridge for breakfast, rice with vegetables. I often pack instant meals – not particularly fancy, but anything tastes good after a long hike.
My insider tip: Take jars of pre-cooked food (e.g., chili, stew) with you. You can simply heat them up and have a proper meal without much effort.
Clothing: Weather-appropriate and flexible
The layering principle also applies to camping. Several thin layers are better than one thick jacket. This way you can react flexibly to temperature changes.
Pack it:
- functional underwear
- Fleece pullover or softshell jacket
- Rain jacket (waterproof!)
- Long and short trousers
- Warm socks (at least two pairs)
- Hat and gloves when it gets colder
Practical extras
These little things are easily forgotten, but they make camping life much more pleasant:
- Headlamp : Hands free, light where you look
- Power bank : For mobile phone, GPS or camera
- Waterproof bag/box : For valuables, mobile phone, documents
- Pocket knife : Universal tool for everything
- Rope/cord : For hanging laundry, tightening tents, improvising
Camping boxes: Organization is everything
A camping box is one of those purchases you didn't know you needed until you have one. I use sturdy plastic boxes with lids to organize and protect my gear.
The advantage: Everything stays dry, clean, and easily accessible. I have one box just for cooking (gas stove, dishes, spices), one for food, and one for small items (first aid kit, tools, headlamp). That way, you don't have to unpack half your backpack to find your pocket knife.
Stackable boxes are invaluable, especially when you're traveling by car or van. They keep your trunk organized and make it easy to move things indoors when it rains. I prefer transparent boxes – you can see what's inside at a glance. But labeled boxes work great too.
Preparation & Planning
Good preparation is half the battle – especially when it comes to camping tips for beginners, this is paramount.
Location selection: Where do you want to go?
Mountains, lake, forest or sea? Every location has its own charm. I love mountain camping – the air is clear, the view is magnificent, and it gets nice and cool in the evenings for sleeping.
It's more relaxing at the lake: jump straight into the water in the morning, sit on the shore in the evening. Forest camping offers shade and shelter, but can get muddy when it rains.
If you're looking for a campsite, check reviews beforehand. Some sites are overcrowded and noisy, others quiet and natural. The ADAC camping guide or apps like "Park4Night" can help with your selection.
Keep an eye on the weather
I always check the weather forecast a few days beforehand – and again on the day of departure. Thunderstorms, storms, or unexpected cold can quickly make your trip unpleasant.
But: Don't be too perfectionistic. A little rain is part of the experience. With the right equipment, it's not a problem, but rather part of the adventure.
Create packing list
It sounds old-fashioned, but it saves a lot of hassle. I have a standard packing list on my phone that I adjust for every trip. That way I don't forget anything important – and I don't lug around any unnecessary weight.
Organize into categories: sleeping, cooking, clothing, hygiene, extras. Check off everything that goes into the backpack.
Consider sustainability
Camping and nature conservation go hand in hand. Always pack up your rubbish – without exception. Use biodegradable soap, avoid single-use plastics, and bring reusable dishes.
Only light fires where it is permitted. And even then: keep them small, extinguish them completely, and leave no trace. "Leave no trace" – leave nothing but footprints.
Life while camping
Camping has its own rhythm, and that's what makes it so beautiful.
Create small routines
Waking up in the morning when the sun rises. Brewing coffee while the world is still asleep. Sitting around the fire in the evening, reflecting on the day. These little rituals give structure to the camping day and make it special.
I love taking a short walk in the morning before breakfast. The air is fresh, there's often still mist over the lake or the valley, and you practically have nature to yourself.
Community or solitude?
Camping with friends or family is great fun. Cooking together, telling stories, sitting around the campfire – it all brings people closer together.
But solo camping also has its appeal. You're only responsible for yourself, you can do what you want, and you find a peace that's rare in everyday life. Some of my most intense outdoor adventures have been spent alone in a tent.
connection to nature
That, for me, is the essence of camping. You suddenly notice things you would otherwise miss: the different birdsongs in the morning, the rustling in the undergrowth, the smell of earth after the rain. The light at sunset, the stars at night – everything becomes more intense.
This slowing down, this conscious perception, is the greatest gift that camping gives you.
Tips for beginners – often forgotten details
Here are a few things that many people forget the first time:
Insect protection : Mosquitoes, ticks, horseflies – depending on the region, they can be really annoying. Good mosquito repellent and long clothing in the evening help.
First aid kit : Small, lightweight, but worth its weight in gold. Blister plasters, painkillers, disinfectant – basics that belong in every backpack.
The right campsite : Don't camp in depressions (water collects there when it rains). Keep your distance from rivers and streams (risk of flooding, even if it seems unlikely). Shade is nice, but you might want sun in the morning.
Keeping things tidy : It sounds obvious, but having everything in its place saves a lot of stress. Keep your headlamp handy, food in a container, clothes in a bag. It makes a huge difference, especially in the dark.
After camping
The adventure is over, but the work isn't quite finished.
Maintain equipment
Dry your tent completely before storing it. Moisture leads to mold and makes the material brittle. Air out your sleeping bag, wipe down your sleeping mat, and check your stove.
Take care of minor repairs right away: mend a torn seam, replace a broken tent peg. Then you'll be ready for your next trip.
Record experiences
After each trip, I jot down a few key points: What went well? What would I do differently? What equipment was missing, what was unnecessary?
Some people keep a camping journal or post photos online. It's not about showing off, but about preserving the memories. Years later, you flip through them and remember moments you had long forgotten.
Plan your next trip
Once you start, you'll quickly realize: one camping trip leads to the next. Suddenly you're looking at maps, researching new regions, dreaming of different seasons, different landscapes.
That's the addictive potential of camping – in the best sense.
Conclusion
Camping is one of the simplest and most intense ways to experience nature. You don't need expensive equipment, perfect planning, or exceptional fitness. You just need a little courage to embark on the adventure.
Whether with a tent, van or bicycle – whether alone, as a couple or in a group – whether at a campsite or in the wilderness: anyone can begin. And every trip will take you a step further, give you new perspectives, connect you with nature.
So: Pack your things, find a spot in nature, and set off. Your next adventure awaits.
Meta-title : Camping Guide: Tips & Equipment for Your Adventure
Meta-Description : Everything about camping for beginners: equipment, planning, tips and personal experiences for your next outdoor adventure in nature.