Summer's here and the campsites are filling up. Whether it's a long weekend down south or a week up the coast, here's a no-nonsense checklist for a comfy camp, without packing the whole shed.
1. Water, and plenty of it
In Aussie summer heat, plan on at least 5 to 7 litres per person per day for drinking, cooking and washing up. A couple of food-grade jerry cans are cheaper and greener than slabs of bottled water. A 12L jerry can fits easily in the boot.
2. Somewhere decent to sit
Sitting on the esky gets old fast. A padded chair with a drink holder makes the arvo by the fire. Our folding camp chairs come in pairs, so you've got one for your mate too.
3. A table for the camp kitchen
Prepping food on your lap or the tailgate is a recipe for sandy sausages. A roll-up aluminium table packs down tiny. If you're feeding the whole crew, a folding table set with built-in seats covers dinner for four.
4. A proper night's sleep
A thin foam roll won't cut it on hard, rocky ground. A self-inflating mat sets itself up while you pitch the tent.
5. Shade, sun and bugs
Pack a hat, SPF50+, insect repellent and some shade (a tarp or gazebo). Set up camp facing away from the afternoon sun if you can.
6. Don't forget the dog
If the dog's coming, an elevated pet bed keeps them off hot or wet ground and cooler at night. Check the park rules first, because many national parks don't allow dogs.
7. The quick checklist
- Water containers and a backup supply
- Chairs and a table
- Sleeping mat, pillow and sleeping bag or sheets
- Esky and ice
- Stove, gas, lighter and cookware
- First aid kit
- Torch or headlamp and spare batteries
- Hat, sunscreen and insect repellent
- Rubbish bags, so you leave no trace
Need to fill some gaps? Browse the full camping range. Our prices are kept as low as we can make them every day.