A guide to going camping

• Camping is a cheap and enjoyable holiday option

• Research your destination

• Visit UK Net Guides to choose cheap camping equipment

• Make sure tents are large enough to house your group

• Camp by a stream for a natural water supply

• Do not leave litter behind when you leave

• Limit damage to the ground while camping

Enjoy the great outdoors

The rise of the stay-cation has seen many holidaymakers swap the Costa del Sol for Cornwall in a bid to save money and see more of the UK. Camping is a great way to experience more of the stunning scenery and wildlife that can be found across the British countryside.
Cheap camping equipment is all you need to head for the hills and get close to nature. Perhaps you'd like to try fishing, or a spot of bird-watching? Maybe you just want to spend more time with you family away from the distractions of television and games consoles. Whatever your reason, why not enjoy the great British summer under canvas?

Research is key

The first step in planning any camping trip is to research where you would like to go. Campsites can be found across the UK, from the great Yorkshire Moors to the beaches of Dorset. Most provide modern, sophisticated facilities such as showers, toilets and hot and cold water supplies. If you'd prefer more of an adventure, search for public land in the heart of the countryside that can be used for camping, ideal if you enjoy rambling and hiking.

Be prepared

If this is your first trip, you will need to buy camping equipment – a tent, lighting, sleeping bags and cooking equipment. UK Net Guide can help you to find the best deals prior to your trip, allowing you to select from a wide range of products and brands.
Make sure your tent is large enough to comfortably house everyone coming on the trip, with room to store bags and equipment for the duration. Sleeping bags need to be as warm and comfortable as possible for cool summer nights, and it's always a good idea to practice using stoves and other cooking equipment at home before cooking outdoors.
Cool boxes are also ideal for protecting food and drink from the heat. In addition, sturdy, comfortable rucksacks are recommended to carry everything you need to the site. Bright lamps will be needed for night time and folding chairs can provide extra comfort to your trip.

Set up camp

Once you have purchased your tent, practice setting it up in your garden or a nearby field to ensure your camping holiday runs smoothly. Larger tents often boast complex designs but with the help of others are usually easy to assemble.
If you're camping in open countryside, try not to obstruct any public footpaths nearby and choose flat, even ground to pitch your tent. Camping by a stream or brook can provide a water supply for bathing and even cooking if sterilised using the appropriate equipment. Tree shade can be useful to keep cool during hot summer months.

Leave no trace

In order to enjoy the countryside in the years to come, we need to make sure we protect it. Make sure all litter is cleared away at the end of your stay and limit damage to the ground as much as you can. Respect local wildlife by ensuring their natural habitat is not adversely protected by your stay. If you decide to light a campfire, avoid burning materials that may be harmful to the environment, such as plastics, and small fires are allowed where you are staying before collecting firewood.

UK websites are listed and reviewed at Cool Camping, while the Camping and Caravanning Club offers advice for first-time campers. Visit UK Net Guide to shop for cheap camping equipment.