15 Camping Hacks for Your Best Trip Yet

Is that a hint of chill in the air? With fall squarely on the horizon, we’re dreaming of chilly evenings spent in the great outdoors – preferably gathered snugly around a campfire. If a camping trip didn’t make your summer to-do list, autumn is the perfect time to enjoy the earth’s natural beauty – particularly when the leaves are becoming golden and the afternoon sun lends the perfect temps for hiking.

But if camping prep isn’t for you, don’t despair! We’ve got a few tips and tricks up our sleeve to make this your easiest and smartest trip ever. These hacks will have you enjoying the great outdoors without a great effort on your part – so grab your tent and we’ll meet you beneath the stars!

Use sage to repel mosquitoes

Summer may be on its last legs, but mosquitos? They’re alive and well. But fortunately, we’ve got a hack to keep those little suckers at bay: burn sage in your campfire. We never pegged them for purveyors of great taste, so it’s no surprise mosquitoes hate the scent of sage. Next time you're sitting around the campfire, toss a bundle in. Not only will it repel those pesky bugs, but it also infuses your campsite with an earthy, fresh aroma.

DIY lantern

If you've forgotten your lantern, or just want to create a soft ambient light in your tent, strap a headlamp to a translucent water jug (filled with water). The water diffuses the light, illuminating your tent or campsite with a gentle glow that sets the perfect mood for a cozy autumn evening.

Cotton pad fire starters

If you never mastered boy scouts, don’t worry; you can start a fire like your vest is chock-full of merit badges. Before you set out, dip cotton pads in wax and let them dry. These waxed cotton pads work wonders as fire starters; they're lightweight, easy to pack and ignite quickly. Plus, if the ground is damp, they can give your fire the boost it needs to get started.

Pre-scramble eggs

Nothing can ruin your camping trip – and your menu! – like broken eggs all over your cooler. Avoid the risk by pre-scrambling eggs and pouring them into a resealable plastic bottle. This hot tip, courtesy of Buzzfeed, makes those chilly mornings a breeze too. When it's breakfast time, just pour, cook, and enjoy!

Prevent ticks with tea tree oil

Depending where you camp, ticks can be a real concern. While there are many commercial repellents, if you’re into natural remedies you can look no further than tea tree oil. Just add a few drops to water in a spray bottle and spritz on your clothes and skin before you head out on a hike or sit under the tree. The scent repels ticks so you can have a little more peace of mind while you’re enjoying nature.

Instant pillow with your clothes

Forgot your pillow or feel like your “bed” could use a bit more cushion? Use your clothes! Stuff a soft shirt or jacket with some clothing items to create a makeshift pillow, or layer them under a sheet on your camping pad to keep things cozy. This not only saves space but ensures you have a comfy spot to rest at night.

Single-use soap leaves

Instead of carrying a big soap bar or bottle, shave slivers off a bar of soap. Store these slivers in a small container. Every time you need to wash your hands, just take one out. It's a great way to save space and keep things neat.

Frozen water bottles as cooler ice packs

Instead of ice, freeze a couple of water bottles and place them in your cooler. They'll keep your food cold, and as they melt, you'll also have cold drinking water. It's a two-for-one hack that saves money and space.

Easy pancake mix dispenser

Want an easy, no-fuss breakfast that hits the spot, even when the temperatures dip? Clean out an old ketchup or squeeze bottle and fill it with pancake batter before you leave. At breakfast time, you'll have an easy way to pour out pancakes without any mess (or mixing!). These bottles can be sealed tightly, keeping the batter fresh (and your cooler clean!) for a day or two.

Taco night with Doritos

Yes, you read that right. If you've forgotten kindling or just want a fun way to start your fire, Doritos (or any other corn chip) can come to the rescue. They're flammable and can help get a campfire started in a pinch. Plus, if you’ve brought extras, you have a tasty snack! Whether you’re having a hard time starting a fire or just need a late-night snack fix, you’ve got the solution on hand!

Protect toilet paper from moisture

Nothing can cramp a camp like wet toilet paper (insert vomit emoji here). Solve this by storing the roll in a CD spindle or coffee can with a cutout for the paper so you can easily pull it through. It's easy to use and ensures your TP stays dry.

DIY camping shower

If you're in a spot without shower facilities, well, firstly, you’re a star! Secondly, you can still stay clean by taking a large water jug and punching some holes in the cap. When you’re ready for a shower, just hang it from a tree and let gravity do the work. If you want a warm shower, leave the jug in the sun for a few hours before using.

Organize with a shoe organizer

Camping gear is no joke – but keeping track of it all can easily feel like a joke! Hang a clear shoe organizer in or outside of your tent to store utensils, snacks, toiletries and other small items in its pockets. It’s an efficient way to keep everything organized and easily accessible.

Opt for non-disposables

Enjoying nature tends to bring out the conservationist in all of us! If you’re like us and want to have a great time while leaving no trace, opt for non-disposable solutions like camp plates and flatware and washable dish cloths and towels. Our Not Paper Towels are the perfect choice for a camping trip, since they perform like a paper towel but are easily washed and reused – for wherever the outdoors take you next!

Use silica gel packs for dampness

You know those little silica gel packs that come with shoes or electronics? They're great for absorbing moisture, so start saving them for your next camping trip! Place them in your cookware or even your shoes overnight to prevent mold and unwanted dampness.

When it comes to camping, the joy is really in the journey. These hacks help you focus on the real journey at hand: enjoying life’s most beautiful moments. Keep an eye out for our new Fall 2023 Collection, which celebrates the beauty of the season and the joy of destinations unknown.