Camping for Beginners: Top Reddit Questions Answered by Real Campers
So, you’re thinking about your first camping trip. You’ve got the excitement. Maybe a borrowed tent. Maybe no idea where to start. Good news: you’re not alone, we’ve been there, and Reddit’s full of beginner questions from people in the exact same boat.
We combed through the most common beginner questions on Reddit and gave our take, so your first few trips might be a little smoother.
🏕️ “What do I actually need to bring?”
Start simple. Don’t get crazy with the gear right off the bat.
You need:
- A tent (borrow one if you can)
- Something to sleep on (pad or air mattress)
- A sleeping bag or warm blankets
- A cooler
- A stove (or a friend who brings one)
-
A headlamp
Everything else is just a bonus. Seriously, your first trip should be about figuring out what you wish you had, not stuffing your car like you’re going off-grid for a year. Most Redditors agree: borrow what you can, and learn as you go.
🏡 “Can I just camp in my backyard first?”
Yes! And you should. We did this tons as kids!
Set up your tent in the yard. Cook a simple dinner outside. Go through all the motions. You'll learn things fast, like how long it takes to set up the tent, how warm your sleeping bag actually is, and what not to forget (like a pillow or lighter). Camping at home is low-stakes, and honestly? Kinda fun.
❄️ “How do I keep food cold in a cooler?”
Reddit’s top advice:
- Freeze what you can ahead of time
- Keep drinks separate from the food (less opening = less ice melt)
- Use block ice if possible, or freeze big water bottles
- Don't drain the cooler unless the water's nasty. Ice water keeps things colder
Also: precook meals when possible. Sous-vide or foil-wrapped stuff saves time, cleanup, and stress.
🔥 “Should I cook over a fire or just bring a stove?”
A campfire always sounds nice. But unless you’ve done it before, we suggest you bring a stove.
Start with the over-the-fire classics like s’mores, hot dogs, maybe foil packets, and cook the real stuff on a two-burner or backpacking stove. You’ll get to eat faster and have fewer burnt pancakes.
Once you’ve got the rhythm, ease into fire cooking. It’s worth learning. Just don’t make it the only option. When you're ready here are a few ideas: 10 Easy Camping Meals You Can Cook Over the Fire
📍 “Where should I camp for my first trip?”
Stick close. Drive-in campsites are your friend.
Look for:
- Sites with flat ground
- Real bathrooms
- Picnic tables (great if you don't have a full kitchen setup)
-
Somewhere within a few hours of home
A lot of beginners on Reddit say their first mistake was going too remote, too fast. Keep it simple. The goal is to want to go again. This was Evan taking the Chukwagon out for a test drive at a campsite not too far from home!
🧍♀️ “What about solo camping safety, especially for women?”
This comes up a lot, and we respect it. Community advice includes:
- Stick to populated campgrounds
- Share your location or itinerary with a friend
- Lock valuables in your car
- Don't overshare your plans with strangers at camp
-
Carry a whistle, alarm, or light you can trigger easily
Also, trust your gut. If something feels off, move sites or pack up. You’re out there for peace, not pressure.
🦟 “How do I not get eaten alive by bugs?”
Mosquitoes, man.
Reddit’s bug-fighting tips:
- Use permethrin-treated clothing (game changer)
- Bring a bug net if you're in heavy zones
- Avoid strong-smelling hygiene products
-
Burn citronella or campfire sage near your site
And yes, bug spray still helps, even if it might not be your favorite.
Final Thoughts: Everyone Starts Somewhere
Most people asking these questions on Reddit are doing what you’re doing: trying not to screw up their first trip. And you know what? You might still forget a lighter. Or overpack. Or undercook your first camp meal. But the quiet mornings, the fire crackle, the weird joy of brushing your teeth outside, it’s all worth it.
You don’t have to be “outdoorsy” to get started. You just have to break out the map and hit the road.
🧰 Bonus: Want to Skip the Chaos?
The Chuk Kitchen Box was built for trips just like this. Organized, fully-packed, and easy to load up for your first (or fiftieth) night under the stars.