The days are long, the evenings are warm, and the call of the wild is louder than ever - escape the everyday and head off-grid for a wild camping adventure. Whether you're venturing solo, bringing the family along, or trying wild camping for the first time this summer holiday, there’s nothing quite like pitching your tent in the middle of nature.

Here’s how to plan the ultimate wild camping trip, from essential gear to safety tips and fun things to do once you’re all set up.

Essential Gear to Pack for Wild Camping

When you’re heading into the wilderness, less is often more. Choose lightweight, compact gear designed for backpacking or bikepacking, and pack with intention. Here's your essential checklist:

1. Tent

A lightweight, weatherproof tent is your best wild camping ally. Try the NEMO Aurora Ridge 2P for comfort and ease or go ultralight with the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 - both perfect for remote pitches.

2. Sleep System

A quality sleep setup means better rest. Pair the Therm-A-Rest Saros 20 Sleeping Bag with a NEMO Tensor Trail Insulated Sleeping Pad or Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT for reliable warmth and comfort. Add an ultralight pillow like the Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight to keep your pack weight low.

3. Cooking Kit

Simple meals, sorted. The MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Stove and a TOAKS Titanium 1100ml Pot make a lightweight but powerful cooking combo. Stock up on easy-to-make favourites like Wayfayrer Pasta Bolognese or Summit to Eat Chicken Fajita with Rice.

4. Water and Filtration

Carry enough water for the first stretch, then top up from natural sources using tablets or a filter. Don’t forget a durable water bottle or bladder. Explore more products in this category here.

5. Navigation Tools

Always pack a compass (we love the Suunto MCB NH Mirror Compass) and a good map case like the Lifeventure Waterproof Map Case - GPS is handy but shouldn’t be your only plan.

6. Clothing and Footwear

Layer smart and pack for changeable conditions. A waterproof jacket, insulating layers, comfortable footwear, and spare socks are essentials for staying comfortable in the wild. For day hikes, a lightweight, supportive backpack keeps the load easy, while a durable duffel bag is perfect for throwing everything into the car or van. Keep things organised with dry bags and packing cubes - especially handy if you’re sharing gear or camping with family.

7. First Aid Kit and Personal Items

Include blister plasters, antiseptic wipes, and insect repellent in your first aid kit. A headtorch with spare batteries is a must. Pack biodegradable soap, a trowel for digging a cathole, and rubbish bags so you can take everything back out with you. A LifeSystems Solo Traveller First Aid Kit, headlamp (like the Black Diamond Spot 400-R), and Wilderness Wash will keep you safe and fresh. Don’t forget rubbish bags to pack everything out!

Wild Camping With Kids or Family

Wild camping with children can be a magical experience. It’s a chance to teach them about nature and the joy of simple living. A few tips:

Keep it short and sweet: Choose a destination that’s not too far from the car or a safe trail.
Let them help: Get them involved in pitching the tent, collecting water (safely), or spotting wildlife.
Plan for fun: Bring a nature journal, a pack of cards, or stargazing apps. Kids love a sense of adventure when it's wrapped in a game.
Stay warm and fed: Make sure they have extra warm clothes for the evening and plenty of snacks.
Stick to a routine: Familiar bedtime rituals can help younger children settle in an unfamiliar environment.

Solo Wild Camping Tips

Camping solo is a powerful way to reset and reconnect - but it comes with added responsibilities.

Before heading out, always let someone know where you're going and send over your What3Words location once you’ve pitched up. Don’t pack your fears -take only what you need - and be sure to check the weather before setting off. Carry plenty of water or know where you can refill along the way, and as always, leave no trace behind. Respect the wild and it’ll respect you back.

Things To Do Once You’ve Camped Up

Once your tent is up and your cup of tea is steeping, the real magic begins. Here are a few ways to soak up your time in the wild:

Watch the sunset or sunrise: It’s free, and always worth it.
Capture the moment: Photography, sketching, or just quietly observing can be a brilliant way to slow down.

A Final Word on Safety and Responsibility

Wild camping is a privilege, not a right in many places. Be discreet, respectful, and always leave no trace. Check local laws and land access rights before setting off, and avoid lighting fires where prohibited.

Whether you’re in the rolling hills, tucked into a quiet woodland, or perched by a remote lake, wild camping is your chance to disconnect to reconnect. So this summer holiday, dust off your tent, gather your gear, and head out into the summer wilds.

Your adventure is waiting.