What You Need & How to Use It
Whether you're camping in the garden or out in the woods, having the right kit makes the adventure safer and a lot more fun. Here’s a simple guide to the essentials, with short tips on how to use each one.
🏕️ Shelter & Sleep
Tent / Tarp Shelter
Keeps you dry and warm. Practice putting it up before the trip. If using a tarp, learn a few simple knots to make a basic lean-to.
Sleeping Bag
Pick one suited to the weather (3-season bags are great for most UK nights). Climb in feet-first and zip it up when you’re ready to settle. If you don’t have a sleeping bag, quilts and blankets can be used.
Sleeping Mat / Roll Mat
These can make a lot of difference to how warm you are, it adds insulation and comfort. Lay it flat under your sleeping bag to stay warm and avoid sleeping on lumpy ground.
Pillow or Jumper in a Stuff Sack
A rolled-up jumper or hoodie makes a comfy pillow. Pop it in a bag or cover it with a T-shirt.
🔦 Light & Safety
Headtorch or Torch
Lets you move around safely after dark. A headtorch keeps your hands free, great for reading or getting ready for bed.
Spare Batteries / Power Bank
Always bring a backup, just in case your light or phone runs out of power.
Whistle
Use only in emergencies. Three short blasts are a universal distress signal. Clip it on to your jacket or bag.
First Aid Kit (Basic)
Include plasters, antiseptic wipes, and blister pads. Know how to clean small cuts or scrapes. Also, make sure you pack any personal medication you might need.
Phone (Optional)
Only for emergencies or to contact adults if needed. Try keeping it switched off during the adventure to stay immersed.
🔥 Cooking & Campfire
Camp Stove or BBQ
Use with adult help. Make sure it’s on a flat surface and well away from tents. Never use inside a tent. Have some food that can be eaten cold, just in case you can’t use the stove or BBQ.
Lighter / Matches / Firesteel
A firesteel is great for learning bushcraft fire-starting. Scrape the steel with the scraper into dry tinder. Matches are easier and a lighter even easier! Always have water nearby just in case.
Cooking Pan / Mess Tin
Use to boil water or cook simple meals. Clean up as soon as you’re done, so nothing sticks. Don’t worry too much about the soot on the outside!
Cutlery / Spork
An old set of cutlery is fine, if you have a spork, it saves space by replacing the spoon and fork. Wash it between uses.
Water Bottle / Jug
Fill before bedtime so you don’t need to go searching in the dark. An old pop bottle is great.
🧰 Bushcraft & Fun
Knife (Fixed Blade or Folding)
Use a knife with adult supervision. Keep your fingers behind the blade and always carve away from your body. Always have a First Aid Kit (FAK) nearby in case of an accident.
Paracord or String
Use for tying up tarps, building shelters, or making simple crafts like bracelets or lanyards.
Notebook & Pencil
Jot down your thoughts and experiences, sketch what you see, or list birds and trees you spot.
Scavenger Hunt Sheet / Nature Guide
A fun way to engage with your surroundings. Print one out or make your own.
Playing Cards or Game
Great for evenings in the tent or around the fire.
Find faces in the fire
Great for evenings around the fire, look for faces and shapes.
🧣 Clothing & Comfort
Warm Layers
Even in summer, UK nights can be chilly. Pack a jumper or fleece and thick socks.
Waterproof Jacket / Trousers
The weather can change quickly. Stay dry and you’ll stay happy.
Boots or Trainers
Comfortable, closed shoes are a must, especially for walking or firewood gathering.
Spare Clothes
Pack extras in a dry bag, just in case something gets wet.
Toothbrush & Toiletries
Keep your routine, even in the wild!
🗑️ Leave No Trace
Bin Bag or Rubbish Sack
Leave the place cleaner than you found it. Take away all rubbish, even small bits.
✅ Optional But Useful
Hammock for lounging, or sleeping in with a tarp
Bags for keeping things dry or putting wet things in
Camping Chair or something to sit on
Guide books, Phone apps for identifying trees, animals, plants and wild foods
Glow Sticks or Fairy Lights
Bug Spray
Marshmallows! 🍡
🧭 Final Tip: Keep It Simple
You don’t need fancy gear, just a few basics and a sense of adventure. The real magic comes from being outside, learning together, and trying new things. Learning comes step by step, so be patient and enjoy the adventure!
