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Hi everyone im a newbie camper bought a cheap tent just to try it and loved it so went and bought a vango diablo 600 and i mcan't wait to go camping again to try out our new tent! If there is any advice anyone can give us on camping it would most appreciated to us new happy campers :)

If you've got the tent I'm sure you've got some basics. As you find you need things post on here as there is too much to advise in just one post!

There's an essential camping list on this site somewhere - i'm sure someone will be along to post the link to it.

Don't forget to post your photos on the Show us your tent pics thread.....when you get some taken.

Don't try to go out and buy all your stuff at once - you'd end up bankkrupt in a weekend.
Buy in bits - a can opener this week,  some plates next.    Places like Poundland are a boon for such stuff.    That way you are not worried about something getting broken etc.

Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it.   Or accept help that is offered.    Campers are a friendly bunch.

Treat others as you would like to be treated yourself.   Respect things like quiet times on sites.    Makes camping more pleasurable for all.

I find list of what to pack/take invaluable.   If it is ticked off I know that I have it.   Anything from clean underwear to a box of matches for lighting the cooker.

Yes if you ask on here for advice about camping you will find yourself with a very long shopping list!!! 

Heres my contribution to it:

Delta pegs - very popular with UKCS campers - get enough to peg down your main guys and they will keep your tent safe in adverse weather conditions.

Good sleeping bags for all the family - insulate your airbeds or mats with something like a picnic blanket + foil sheet to prevent the cold air coming through the ground & then a fleece or fleece or quilted topper over the airbed so that when the air inside the airbed turns cold it doesn't turn you cold with it.  Even in the height of summer we insulate our airbeds.

Don't cook inside your tent

Have a fantastic time!!!

The check list link is below kit, just started out myself and taking advice from the very friendy members here I have saved money,time and will be be camping with the family for the first time this Friday with a lot more knowledge before setting off.

http://www.ukcampsite.co.uk/articles/view.asp?id=7

 Get yourself some crocs,they look horrendous but they are light and waterproof and when you wake up at 2.30 am dying for the loo they will be grat no matter how uneven, rocky or wet the ground on your way to the shower block. Other than that take a pad of paper and pencil and take note of what you'll want next time.

The only other thing is get out there and enjoy it.