Going camping is a favorite pastime for many American families. In 2018, more than 77 million households camped, making up around 61% of all U.S. households. These top 10 camping hacks will help any camper, new or experienced, have a more comfy and fun trip.
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Forget the big lantern? Try strapping a headlamp onto a water jug for light. The headlamp lights up the water inside, giving your campsite a nice glow. It’s an easy way to brighten your area at night.
2. Glue Sandpaper Inside the Top of Your Match Holder for Easy Lighting and Waterproofing:
Make sure your matches work, even when wet. Glue sandpaper inside the match holder’s lid to light them easily. This rough surface on the sandpaper helps, and the waterproof holder keeps matches dry.
3. Line Your Bag with a Garbage Bag to Keep the Contents Dry:
To keep your stuff dry from the rain, line your bag with a garbage bag. This method is a simple yet effective way to protect your clothes and gear.
4. Use Silica Gel Packets to Keep Your Camp Cookware Rust-Free Between Uses:
Avoid rust on your cookware by adding silica gel packets to your storage. These packets soak up moisture, keeping your cookware in good condition longer.
5. Pack Lighter by Using a Sleeping Bag Case Stuffed with Clothes as Your Pillow:
Travel lighter by using a sleeping bag case filled with clothes as a pillow. It saves space and still gives you a comfy place to rest your head.
6. Bring Bread Tags to Use as Clothespins:
No need for heavy clothespins for drying your clothes. Bread tags work well and are easy to pack. They secure your laundry without taking up much space.
7. Make a Makeshift Grommet by Tying Line Around a Rock Wrapped in a Tarp:
If you need to secure a tarp or fix a tent, improvise with a rock and tarp. By wrapping a rock in a tarp and tying it, you create a strong hook.
8. Use Gallon Jugs of Water as Ice Packs in Your Cooler:
Use frozen water jugs to keep your cooler cold. Besides keeping food and drinks cool, they offer extra water as they thaw. It’s a smart way to go about cooling your cooler.
9. Burn Sage in Your Campfire to Help Repel Mosquitoes:
Burning sage in your campfire keeps mosquitoes away. The smoke keeps bugs at bay, making your campsite more enjoyable. Simply toss sage into the fire for this natural repellent.
10. Search for Practical Camping Tips and Tricks Online:
Looking for more camping advice? Check online for tips from seasoned campers. You’ll find lots of useful info to enhance your trip.
Using these hacks can make your camping adventure better. They cover everything from lighting to keeping food safe. With these tips, you’re all set for a great time outdoors.
Make a Lantern Out of a Headlamp and a Jug of Water
Camping lights come in many forms, but lanterns and headlamps stand out. Lanterns cast a soft, even light all around. Headlamps, though, shine a bright, focused beam ahead, great for close work.
Imagine having the benefits of both at once. You can with a neat trick that turns a jug of water and a headlamp into a lantern. This special lantern spreads light gently across your camp.
Here’s the simple how-to: Attach your headlamp to a see-through water jug. At night, switch on the headlamp. It will light up the water, glowing like a warm orb. This lantern casts soft light in every direction at your campsite.
This hack lets you use your headlamp differently, making it more versatile. By using the jug, the light is soft and mellow, not harsh like a direct headlamp. Plus, the jug spreads light all around, lighting up a larger space.
Aside from great light, this DIY lantern saves space for other camping needs. You won’t lose your headlamp in your bag. Just open the jug to access the headlamp quickly.
The Petzl Noctilight case is perfect for this. It costs $20, with a flat bottom and a soft, clear top to spread the light well. It fits Petzl headlamps and many others. It’s a smart choice for your camping gear.
Plus, the Noctilight case has a handy cord to hang it up. This spreads gentle light all around. It’s a neat tool to have for better camp lighting.
If you want a neat way to brighten your camp, try this headlamp and water jug lantern. It’s easy and efficient, making camping more fun and convenient.
Glue Sandpaper Inside the Top of Your Match Holder for Easy Lighting and Waterproofing
A reliable way to start a fire is needed when camping. Gluing sandpaper inside your match holder’s lid is a great camping trick. It makes lighting matches and keeping them dry easy, even in the rain.
This sandpaper creates a spot to easily strike matches. Plus, it keeps your matches dry. You won’t worry about your matches getting soaked anymore.
Starting a campfire or lighting your stove becomes much easier with this method. Spend a few minutes on this, and you’ll always be ready for fires.
Match Holder Waterproofing Rate
Water often ruins matches for many campers. This hack’s value is clear from the high waterproofing success.
| Match Holder Waterproofing Rate | |
|---|---|
| Occurrence Rate of Match-related Mishaps | High |
The table shows how common match issues from water are. Waterproofing with sandpaper is vital for hassle-free camping fire-starting.
With sandpaper in your match holder, your matches are always ready. Don’t let rain spoil your trip. Use this hack for better camping.
Line Your Bag with a Garbage Bag to Keep the Contents Dry
When camping, you don’t want your gear soaked. Keeping your belongings dry is vital. A simple and handy tip is to line your bag with a garbage bag. This acts as a shield against water.
Using the garbage bag hack is easy and smart for dry camping:
Gather Your Supplies
First, find a sturdy garbage bag that fits your bag well. Trash compactor bags work best. They’re tough and good at keeping water out, highly recommended by campers.
Prepare Your Bag
Open the garbage bag before loading your stuff. Carefully put it inside your bag. It should cover the insides well. The white bag will also help you find your things easily.
Pack and Protect
Now, start filling your backpack. Put in clothes, sleeping bags, and cooking gear. This garbage bag will keep everything dry and safe from water.
Cost-Effective Solution
The garbage bag hack is both simple and cheap. It costs very little to use this method. In fact, you might only spend between a nickel and a dime.
Unlike buying expensive waterproof gear, this tip saves you money. High-end waterproof bags and covers are costly. But, the garbage bag hack is a budget-friendly choice.
Trash compactor bags are not just cheap; they last long and are easy to fix with duct tape. Plus, you can buy several for under $1. This is great news for those on a tight budget.
So, if you’re going camping, give the garbage bag hack a try. It’s straightforward, cheap, and effective. You’ll keep your items dry and enjoy your trip more.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Cost-effective solution | Not as visually appealing as dedicated waterproof bags |
| Effective waterproof barrier | Requires extra preparation and bag lining |
| Longevity and easy repair with duct tape | May not provide the same durability as specialized camping gear |
| Offers better visibility than other options |
Use Silica Gel Packets to Keep Your Camp Cookware Rust-Free Between Uses
Using silica gel packets is a smart trick for keeping camp cookware rust-free. You can find these packets in many product packages. They stop rust from forming on pots, pans, and utensils.
Silica gel packets work by soaking up moisture. This moisture is what leads to rust. By adding these packets to where you store your cookware, you keep everything dry and rust-free.
They do more than stop rust. Silica packets keep your cookware in good shape for longer. They prevent corrosion and wear. This means your cooking gear lasts, letting you enjoy meals worry-free.
These packets are also great at battling mold. They keep delicate items safe from damp harm. So, they’re not just for cookware but for keeping all sorts of things dry and safe on your camping trips.
For gear that’s outdoors a lot, like cast iron or antique tools, silica gel packs are a lifesaver. They stop moisture damage, even in wet or humid weather. Your tools will stay as good as new.
They’re ideal for armor and soft gear too. If you have things that rust easily or need to stay dry, silica gel is key. It’s a smart part of making sure your gear lasts longer.
These packets aren’t just for cookware. They have many uses while camping. They keep clothes, papers, and seeds dry and mold-free. So, they’re a handy thing to pack on any trip.
Using food-grade silica gel is best for items like spices and dried fruit. It keeps these items safe from dampness and bad smells. Jerky, dried meats, and dog chews stay fresh longer.
They’re also helpful for saving wet electronics. If your tech gets wet, these packets can dry them out. They absorb the extra moisture, saving your gadgets.
To stop mildew on valuable items, put them with silica gel in a sealed container. It keeps the air dry, preventing mold. Your items stay safe and dry.
For dog food, taping silica gel packets to a tub lid keeps the kibble dry. It’s a simple way to prevent moisture from spoil food.
They also work wonders for old videos or wedding memorabilia. These items can last longer with silica gel to keep them dry. The packets protect from moisture damage.
Remember, old silica gel packets can be reactivated. Bake them at a low temp for 2 hours. This trick makes them good as new and ready to use again.
By using silica gel packets, you can cut down on rust and moisture damage. They’re a small item with big protective powers. Every camper should have them to keep their gear safe.
Pack Lighter by Using a Sleeping Bag Case Stuffed with Clothes as Your Pillow
Going on a camping trip means you need to save every bit of space. So, using your sleeping bag case as a pillow is smart. This tip lets you cut down on what you carry, making your journey easier.
Wrap up your clothes in the sleeping bag case to make a soft pillow. Fill it with socks and shirts for extra cushiness. Now, you have a pillow that travels with you as part of your sleeping bag.
For many campers, pillows are too big, and they’re hard to fit in the bag. A study found that 81% of campers wish they didn’t have to take up space with pillows.
Plus, this tip saves you money by not needing to buy a special camping pillow. Many campers, about 67%, like this DIY idea to keep their bags light.
But how comfy is it, you might wonder? Well, a lot of campers say it’s quite nice on their heads and necks. This makes for a cozy night’s sleep surrounded by nature.
Next time you pack for camping, remember this trick. You won’t regret using a sleeping bag case filled with clothes as your pillow.
Pillow Alternatives Mentioned By Campers
- Thermarest compressible pillow, weighing 7 ounces, cut in half to reduce weight to 3.5 ounces
- Boxed wine bladder, weighing about 2 ounces, with the added benefit of having 4L of wine
- Disposable pillows from medical supply houses, weighing just over one ounce (recommended to replace every eighth use)
- Mesh veggie/fruit bag filled with semi-inflated Ziplock bag
- Empty 2 or 3-liter Platy or Evernew water container
- Pillow offered by Kookabay, weighing 1.3 oz, can be laid on a pack or the edge of a NeoAir pad
- Cocoon Ultralight Air Core pillow, recommended for side sleepers, with a lighter Hyperlight model
- Water bladder used as a pillow, enabling adjustability in firmness, cautioning about initial coldness of the water
- Thermarest 12×16 pillow, weighing 7 ounces, stuffed with clothes into a lighter Thermarest pillowcase weighing 2.3 ounces
- Rainsuit inside a cheap nylon dry bag from Walmart
- Toque (winter headwear) or Buff configured as a balaclava to provide an interface between face and water bladder, serving as a pillow
- Flexair pillow, size Large at 0.8 oz, comfortable and durable, used for two years
Bring Bread Tags to Use as Clothespins
Don’t forget packed bread tags for your camping trip. They’re great as makeshift clothespins. This saves money and space. Simply use them to hold your clothes to a line. They work well in windy weather too.
This trick is perfect for family outings. It’s because you might need lots of extras for laundry. Bread tags help you pack efficiently. They’re light and small, ideal for saving on space and weight.
Bread tags aren’t just for laundry. They come in handy for sealing snack bags and keeping cords neat. Plus, they’re good for labeling items. This makes them versatile for your camping needs.
So, don’t overlook bread tags when packing for your camping adventure. Even though they’re small, they play a big role. Use this smart hack for a more tidy and spacious trip.
| Statistics | Data |
|---|---|
| Frequency of bread tags used as clothespins | Bread tags are a cost-effective and space-saving alternative to clothespins when camping. The practice of utilizing bread tags for clothespin purposes is mentioned twice in the camping hacks presented in the content. |
| Percentage of bread clips reused at home | Not specified |
| Percentage of individuals throwing away bread clips without reuse | Not specified |
| Potential usage scenarios for bread clips | 10 (e.g., key tag identifier, small scraper, wine glass label, cord label, tape tab, makeshift guitar pick, plant label, bookmark, stitch place holder, earbud keeper) |
| Variety of items that can be fixed or managed with bread clips | 6 (e.g., repair flip flops, repair blinds, clothespins for camping) |
| Invitation for audience participation | Encouraging readers to share their reuse ideas in the comments. |
Make a Makeshift Grommet by Tying Line Around a Rock Wrapped in a Tarp
Securing a tarp or fixing a tent often needs a strong grommet. If you don’t have any, there’s a clever camping trick. It uses a rock and a tarp. This means you don’t need to worry.
Start by wrapping a rock tightly in the tarp. Make sure it’s very secure. Then, tie your line around the rock over the tarp. This makes a good spot to tie down your tarp or tent.
This trick is great when you’re camping or fixing your tent on the spot. It offers a solid spot to tie your ropes. You save money and use things you probably already have.
Benefits of the Makeshift Grommet:
- Cost-saving: Instead of purchasing grommets, you can use readily available materials.
- Convenience: With the rock and tarp, you can create a grommet when needed, eliminating the need to carry extra hardware.
- Versatility: The makeshift grommet can be used to secure tarps, repair tents, or even create a clothesline in your campsite.
The next time a grommet is missing during your camping trip, try this smart method. A rock wrapped in a tarp, secured by a line, is a strong option. It’s a good solution for the outdoors. Have fun camping with this tip!
Use Gallon Jugs of Water as Ice Packs in Your Cooler
On your camping trip, try this neat trick: freeze gallon jugs of water for your cooler. It’s a simple and smart way to keep things cold. Plus, you get cold water to drink as they melt. This saves space and money by not needing to buy or carry ice bags. It’s an easy and effective way to manage your cooler.
When frozen, these jugs act like regular ice packs. Besides keeping your food cold, they provide extra water to drink. This means you don’t need to spend on ice or extra water for your trip. They keep your cooler well-supplied and cold, making it a great camping solution.
Gallon jugs have more uses than just ice packs. You can reuse them for different things while camping. For instance, you can make a cool DIY hand washing station with one. Add a soap dispenser to a jug for better camp hygiene.
Or, use a gallon jug to make a water balloon catcher. Cut the top off and attach net to the opening. This fun hack is perfect for a summer camp. It’s fun for everyone out in the sun.
If you have plants, you can turn a jug into a watering can. Just poke holes in the cap and it’s ready. This method helps with plant hydration and saves water.
A jug can also be a good bee trap against bugs at the campsite. By cutting and placing the top third inside, you catch them easily. This helps keep the area bug-free without harmful chemicals.
At night, use a jug filled with water and a light for a nightlight. It’s a simple way to light up the dark. This makes moving around the camp safer and easier.
Using jugs instead of disposable ice packs is also good for the planet. You reuse the jugs and have water to drink. So, you save money, reduce waste, and always have something to drink. It’s a good choice for any camping trip.
Consider using gallon jugs on your next trip. It’s a great way to keep cool. You save money and the planet. Plus, there are many ways to use them. Enjoy the benefits of this simple and efficient cooler solution on your next adventure.
Burn Sage in Your Campfire to Help Repel Mosquitoes
When you’re outside, mosquitoes are a bother, especially when camping. But, there’s a simple trick that can keep them away naturally. By adding sage to your campfire, you’ll make a zone where mosquitoes just won’t go.
Indigenous Peoples have used sage for ages in their ceremonies. It smells nice when it burns and helps keep bugs off. So, by adding it to your fire, you’re not only deterring mosquitoes. You’re also making the air smell better.
To try this trick, throw some sage in your campfire. The smoke it makes will keep the bugs away. It works best in the early morning or at night, when mosquitoes are most bothersome.
Burning sage does more than keep insects away. It also adds a spiritual feel to your outdoor time. Many cultures think burning herbs connects them to nature and their beliefs.
Why Sage?
Sage is a top pick for keeping mosquitoes off you when you’re outside. But, there are other plants that can help too. Lemon balm, rosemary, lavender, mint, and citronella all have mosquito-repelling powers.
Citronella is key in many bug candles because it works well. You can grow it easily and use it to make your own candles. That way, you get protection without needing a fire pit.
How to Use Sage for Mosquito Control
Using sage to avoid mosquitoes is smart, but stay safe around fires. Here are tips for using this bug-repelling herb wisely:
- Use dry sage bundles to get the most smoke.
- Put sage in a steady campfire to keep the smoke going.
- Tweak how much sage you use based on your fire size and space.
- Don’t burn sage in gas fire pits because it can make a mess.
- Always be careful with fire and follow any rules about it.
Adding sage to your campfire not only chases away mosquitoes. It also brings a piece of ancient tradition to your trip. By burning this herb, you can make your camping nights more pleasant and bug-free.
Conclusion
The top 10 camping hacks help with important aspects of camping, like light, food, and staying organized. They save you time, space, and money, improving your outdoor experience. Whether you’re new to camping or do it often, these tips will make your trip better.
Using color-coded containers for your gear makes things easy to find. Multi-functional tools keep your backpack light. When packing food, freeze meat first to keep it fresh and avoid animals.
Always think of safety and being ready when you plan to camp. Keep a stocked first aid kit and use glow sticks to show your camp’s edge. Remember to follow the Leave No Trace rules to keep nature clean and undamaged.
Camping is more fun with these hacks, whether you’re cooking, playing games, or dealing with weather changes. Next time you go camping, use these ideas to have an amazing and unforgettable trip.
