Iain Duff reveals the secret list of alternative camping items that no one ever tells you to bring but will improve your tent life massively
We all know there are some items of camping kit that you simply can’t live without: a tent, sleeping bags, a camping stove, chairs, etc. Then there’s the kit that is good to have, if not absolutely essential, such as storage furniture, dining tables and electric lighting. And finally, the stuff that falls into the luxury camping category, like an inflatable sofa, a gas barbecue or even a TV.
But what about that other category of equipment that no one ever tells you that you should bring, but that makes camping life so much easier?
I’m talking about products that aren’t strictly designed to be used for camping but are ideal for using around the tent and the campsite.
Some of them are just basic common sense – like bringing flip flops to wear in the shower or using your own pillows from home. Others, like hot water bottles or thermal socks, you learn through years of experience.
But there are some items that might never occur to you as being useful for camping in a million years, but could turn out to be game changers. A slow cooker in a tent? Really? Yes, really!
So have a look at our alternative camping kit list – and if you’ve got any suggestions of your own, please let us know on social media or drop me an email at campingeditorial@warnersgroup. co.uk
IN THE KITCHEN
1 THREE-IN-ONE COFFEE SACHETS
So-called cofficionados will no doubt throw their hands up in horror, but these are brilliant to have for a quick caffeine burst in the morning. This is the ultimate in instant coffee – just boil the kettle and pour. No need to worry about keeping milk fresh or sugar dry.
2 SAUCE SACHETS
Speaking of sachets, we always save up sauce packets from cafés and fast food restaurants and take them on camping trips to save a bit of money. You can do the same with sugar and salt and pepper.
3 FRYLIGHT SPRAY OIL
It’s healthier to cook with this, of course, but using spray instead of a bottle of oil has other advantages. There’s far less chance of a spillage for a start, and it takes up much less space in the camping box.
4 INSTANT TEA
Another one for the purists! Again this is all about the convenience and instant tea has improved dramatically over the years.
5 SLOW COOKER
You might think this is insane, but believe me, if you have electric hook-up, a slow cooker will change how you think about campsite cooking forever. Start cooking in the morning, leave it to do its thing all day, and by dinner time you’ll have a fantasti
