Smart, Simple Camping Tips to Make Camp Life Easier
Camping doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right know-how, a few clever tricks can make your time in the wild more comfortable, efficient, and even a little more fun. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just getting started, these top 5 camping hacks are tried, tested, and ready to level up your next adventure.
#5
Bring At Least 100ft of Paracord
Cordage is almost as important as water when you’re camping. Its versatile, portable, and best of all – its cheap. Packing at least 100 feet of paracord should suffice. Whether you need to secure a tent, hang food away from wildlife, replace a broken shoelace, or create an emergency shelter, paracord can handle the job. Its lightweight and compact nature make it easy to carry, yet it boasts impressive durability, often supporting hundreds of pounds of weight. In survival situations, the inner strands can be separated and used for fishing lines, first aid, or even fire-starting. With so many practical applications, paracord is one of the most valuable and indispensable tools for any outdoor adventure. Rothco has been making quality paracord in the USA since the 1950s.
#4
Avoid Cotton
Cotton clothing doesn’t hold up well in the elements. They retain moisture, take forever to dry, and are poor insulators. Instead, bring moisture-wicking clothing like merino wool to help you stay dry and odor-free. Its also a good idea to bring an extra pair of socks and underwear.
#3
Bring Headlamps Instead of Flashlights
Headlamps are your best friend in the wilderness. Whether you’re setting up your tent at night, cooking, or navigating trails – having both of your hands free makes a huge difference. They provide consistent, directional lighting that moves with your line of sight, ensuring you always illuminate exactly where you’re looking. Headlamps also tend to be more lightweight and compact than flashlights, making them easier to pack and carry. Many modern headlamps feature adjustable brightness, red light modes to preserve night vision, and long battery life, making them a versatile and essential tool for any outdoor adventure. Our favorite American Made headlamps are the Princeton Tec Vizz, Princeton Tex Remix, and SureFire Maximus.
#2
Bring Ice Blocks Instead of Ice Bags
Unlike small ice cubes, which melt quickly and create a soggy mess, large ice blocks take significantly longer to thaw, helping to maintain a low temperature in your cooler for an extended period. You can make your own by freezing water in milk jugs or large plastic containers before your trip. Not only does this method reduce water buildup in the cooler, but it also minimizes the need to constantly drain melted ice, keeping your food dry and fresh. Ice blocks work best in Vacuum Insulated Coolers.
#1
DIY Fire Starter (Cotton Balls + Petroleum Jelly)
Starting a fire can be a struggle, especially in damp conditions, but using cotton balls coated in petroleum jelly makes it effortless. These homemade fire starters are compact, lightweight, and incredibly effective. The petroleum jelly acts as a slow-burning fuel, allowing the cotton ball to stay lit for several minutes—plenty of time to ignite your kindling. Simply store them in a small container or plastic bag and pull one out whenever you need a reliable flame. This hack is perfect for campers who want a quick and foolproof way to start a fire without relying on commercial fire starters or lighter fluid.
