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I actually think camping IS a cheap option.  If you're tough, and keen, and don't mind roughing it, you don't need top-range equipment... just warm, waterproof clothing, decent boots/wellies, a reasonable tent and a good, warm sleeping-bag.  Everything else can be got second-hand.

My lad is a 'wild' camper.  He was given his sleeping-bag by a student pal who decided camping wasn't for him.  He buys decent, but not always high-price clothing, owns a medium-range Khyam tent (cost £99) for when his mates camp with him, but is just as happy camping with his girlfriend in my little Eurohike dome, which I paid £20 for years ago in a Millett's sale.

Since he loves mountain walking, he would have to buy the clothing and equipment for that even if he weren't camping, so spending on that isn't really a camping issue.

He cooks on a Swedish log and takes plates, pans and cutlery from home.  His basic camping style means that he's spent very little on his setup, and of course once it's bought, it lasts for many camps, saving him loads of money over time.

He camps in the foullest weather and seems to be dry and happy, and his simple kit takes him minimal time and fuss to assemble for the trip and deploy in the field.  I tried it his way once, and it was bliss to have everything so simple!  But being more than twice his age, my bones need chairs and soft things to sleep on if I'm camping for more than a couple of nights!

Finally, I agree with Lostdreamer... attitude is everything.  You can survive the camping learning process if you're positive about it, and take everything that's thrown at you with a cheerful grin!  The weather might be wonderful, and the whole thing idyllic, but if it rains or the site owner is grumpy or your pan of beans blow off the stove in the wind, you'll enjoy it a whole lot more if you're resilient!

Sounds like you're going to have a great time.  Have fun, and good luck!  And do come back and tell us how it went.

FoO

Quote: Originally posted by Alexobrien on 02/3/2011

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Hello all,

This is my first post, and I'm in need of advice.

Money being in short supply, camping seemed like the best option. I'm 36, and not afraid of a bit of cold or rain, and I'm certainly not afraid of living without creature comforts.

I have booked a night at a site near FoD at the end of March, and I guess my first question is, is this crazy or normal?

My next question is really quite an open one: I have a one-man tent, that I've never opened (it was a gift), and no camping equipment. Is there a list of 'must haves' that i can use as a shopping list for my trip into the wild?

Cheers
Alex

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Did anyone mention lighting?

As a mountain biker I expect you have a head torch, use that in the tent and  for cooking, pouring beer, visiting the loo, as it will be dark early.

Also some form of all round light for sitting about is a good idea. Everyone has their own idea of what is best. Some prefer LED UFO lights, cheap and economical on batteries, others swear by gas or petrol lantern, for atmosphere and heat.

Have fun!

Quote: Originally posted by Alexobrien on 02/3/2011

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so you need either a traditional foam rollmat (preferably two) or a self-inflating mat (usually abbreviated to SIM)
Again, good intel. I was actually planning to get one of those camping beds... are these any good? Would they keep me warmer (as they're off the ground)?

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A camp bed will work, provided, you also use a roll mat (or similar) on top to act as insulation along with a blanket draped over the bed, hanging over the sides - keeps the draft out from underneath.  Used mine a couple of weeks ago in that fashion.  AND of course it fits in your tent - not just according to the dimentions either, dont forget you will still need to get on/off the bed, in/out of the tent - and there is also the height to take into account.

I'm not saying not to do it, just trying to help make it a little more comfortable for you.

Quote: Originally posted by roy c on 03/3/2011

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As you're 36 and getting on a bit

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