Your Beginner’s Guide to Camping: 5 Simple Steps to Get Outdoors

Camping shouldn’t feel complicated. It should feel easy, like pitching your tent in minutes and waking up to golden light. This is your space to breathe, away from the everyday hustle. 

If you’re new to camping, the right gear and a little planning make all the difference. We’ve kept it simple so you can spend less time figuring things out and more time making memories. 

Here are five simple steps from the Kathmandu team to make your first camping trip effortless. 

Step 1: Find Your Spot  

Start with an easy-access campsite. DOC sites, holiday parks, and regional campgrounds are all great options for beginners. Look for places with flat ground and good facilities. Book ahead during busy seasons, then start dreaming about that first sunrise.  

Step 2: Gear Up 

The right gear makes camping effortless. When setup is simple, you have more time for the good stuff and adventures. 

Start with your home away from home. The Roamer Quick Pitch Tent goes up in minutes, giving you space to stand and oversized windows to frame the view. Pair it with a sleeping bag and insulated mat for warmth and comfort all night. 

Make moving gear easy with the Retreat Trolley. Oversized wheels and a drop-down tailgate mean less heavy lifting, and no more feeling like a human packhorse. 

Finally, pack a comfy camp chair, a lantern for ambience, and a compact cooking setup for wraps, pasta, and s’mores under the stars. 

Step 3: Dress for the Outdoors  

Layer up. Think quick-dry fabrics, a warm jacket, sturdy shoes, and cozy socks for those late-night stargazing sessions. Comfort is key.  

Step 4: Make Time for the Moments  

Morning coffee as the sun rises. Stories under the trees. Stars spilling across the night sky. When camping is easy, you have more time for the things that matter.  

Step 5: Keep It Simple  

Practice pitching your tent at home before you go. Pack a small first-aid kit, and store food securely overnight.  

The first camping trips are all about making memories, not feeling stressed. Keep these five tips in mind, and your first trip will feel effortless.