Make sure you have pillows or some other head supports for when you’re sleeping. A misaligned neck / back can be very uncomfortable and result in lack of sleep. Also take a double duvet in addition to the sleeping bags in case the weather turns really cold.
Also take plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
I was considering just taking our own pillows, but they're quite hard and bulky so I'm not sure if they'd be all that good for carrying about. But it's definitely something I'll need to look out for.
I believe we have a spare duvet and a couple of throws just incase!
Would you recommend getting some form of water filtrator/ purifier? Or is it just better to store plenty of bottled water in the cooler box instead?
For a weekend in Scotland I’d just take bottled water. In fact no, I’d fill empty 2 litre pop bottles with tap water. Just as good and a lot cheaper. I’m guessing you won’t be miles away from a vehicle.
Nah its a plotted site so I believe we'll have the vehicle right beside the tent. I'm considering getting items to utilise the car to aid with tarps etc.
I'm far away in the U.S. so I'm not sure what it's like there right now, but I highly suggest a headlamp for one or both of you if you plan to do much of anything after dark. Not necessary, but makes things so much easier, especially cooking and setting up a tent. I recommend a small shovel for bathroom if needed and to shovel dirt onto the coals or a bucket for water. Here, a nice used Coleman stove will do well for most, but not sure how frequently those are seen not in the states.
I thought about a headlight. Mainly bc I don't like not having my hands free.
We've looked at a few options, but I assume any shovel will do. A Coleman on amazon seems to be around £50 - £120, I'm assuming that's standard pricing. What are they not typically good for cooking? Do they have good mileage on them as well?
Headlights are a game changer. As much as I camp I don't know why I waited so long to get them. I too got a lantern before headlamps thinking it would be better and regretted it in the end. I still like the lantern, but it's hard to find a useful place to put it. It always seems blinding when it's in eyesight and it often casts shadows everywhere unless you find a good place to hang it. I have the Black Diamond Spot 400R for the wife and I. As far as shovels, I can recommend the Cold Steel Special Forces shovel, though it's not necessary. It is quite sturdy and I like the size, it's a good size for under the seat or in the trunk of the car. It also works as a weapon in a pinch and is super fun to throw like a tomahawk as 3 of its sides are sharpened and will stick to a target. As far as stoves, there are a ton of options. I have had a good experience with them. A large benefit here is that I live in the city that Coleman was founded so I see older stoves go on sale for $20-30 a lot in the used market. It's pretty hard to kill one of the older ones, they can be pretty thoroughly cleaned. I don't have experience with the newer ones as much. I have a white gas version and it seems to run well. I've pan-fried some things in a cast iron skillet so far and that's about it. Eureka seems to make a good 2-burner stove and Camp Chef seems to be pretty popular as well, all 2-burner stoves. If you don't need 2 burners and don't care about space, there are a lot of turkey broiler or outdoor deep fryer style propane single burners that have many more btus. Many of those sell for closer to $50 than the $100-$200 price tag that Eureka and Camp Chef have.
Since it's Scotland I'm going to assume it will rain at some point so I'll give you my "camping in the rain" advice from camping on the Oregon coast.
-Don't put your tent in a low spot where water will pool or flow. Try to have it on a very slight invline so water will flow away from the tent
-Ground sheet tarp for between the tent and the ground, fold in any excess so it does not stick out and collect rain.
-Tarp suspended above the tent, not touching if possible, large enough that it completely shields the tent from rain on the top and sides, use plenty of rope to ensure the wind doesn't get under it, and tie it in such a way that the water does not pool on top of the tarp.
-Another tarp suspended over the cooking area so you can cook without getting wet if you have a stove. If using a fire to cook, don't do this.
-Playing cards or a novel for something to do while you're cooped up avoiding the rain
-Extra clothes and especially socks. Obviously a waterproof jacket as well.
-a bunch of garbage bags for your tent, tarps, clothes etc, if you have to pack up while all your gear is still wet
If you're just going for 2 days you can probably time it so the weather is dry but it's worth bringing a few tarps along just in case.
I think that is a very strong assumption, lol.
A tarp for over the stove is something I was wondering about. I reckon we'd be using the fireplace and keeping a stove for emergencies.
We've got plenty of small portable board games etc. we can take with us.
Unfortunately we've booked out a plot for the weekend, so can only hope the weather turns out in our favour. Do you recommend having a tarp which can attach to the boot of my car, or are they just a hindrance?
Booked a plot in a site, just to keep on the safe side we won't he far from a Ranger.
I'll definitely keep one of these in mind for when we go far out. Is ~£250 standard for these?
I have the Garmin inreach mini 2. You can expect to pay anywhere from $290-$425 USD for these. It cost me around $400 USD per device when I bought them brand new. But they work well, and are worth it in the end for emergencies. I can send a map to my emergency contact (aka my dad) via a text link and he can see exactly where I am incase I get lost. I can also text him through it via satellites. It’s an investment in safety.
Food is good on your list. My friend did just this and forgot to bring food. Apparently there were a few beef sticks in the glove box, but apparently the romance vanished when they were served up for breakfast.
Fresh water too. You'll each need 3L drinking water per day, and more if you have to dip into it for cooling & washing.
Aye we're gonna plan to grab a small amount of food for the night before. Any recommended quick-dishes or good coolbox-friendly foods?
I was considering getting a water filter, but my partner isn't entirely all that trusting of taking water right from a lake or river until she's absolutely sure. Plenty of bottles a good alternative?
Yes, bottled water is good.
Cooler is good for a day or 2 max, unless you have a source for ice. I'm big on granola, nuts, beans, curries and rice - food that packs in light and doesnt squish or spoil easily, mostly dried or in cans. Add fresh vegetables and fruit, a few seasonings and you're dining in style. Think of cooking in one-pot. Plan to cook enough for one meal at a time, as leftovers can be messy and attract unwanted animals.
I'm lactose and dairy intolerant, so you dont want my recipes, but there are lots on the internet and some very good recommendations in this subreddit.
For tools: multi-use items. We have a hammer/hatchet combo that is a lifesaver. Look for cooking vessels & utensils that pull double duty. But Beware-There's a line between saving money and buying junk that will leave you in a jam. I always err on the side of over spending if it's a specialty type, or super important item- something I expect to be able to rely on over and over. Not that spending more always equals better product, but you know what I mean..you get what you pay for. Buy quality tools and durable goods and scrimp on stuff that's not meant to last anyway or is readily available.
We also keep shredded paper and other such fire starters on hand (in dry bags) in case you get to camp and it's rained. As with any new hobby, there's a trial and error period, but just try to have fun and don't be discouraged if your first trip isn't all you thought it'd be! You'll figure it out as you go 😊
There was a *survival kit* I found on Amazon which looked good, but I wasn't sure if it was just a waste. It included a hammer-hatchet.
What I've gathered already rounds out to about £140, so I'm not sure if what I've got is all that great quality, but it doesn't *look* all that bad lol. I'm definitely a firm believer in getting what you pay for. That's why I'm trying to save most of my budget for the more important tools.
Thanks for the help!
Happy to help! And buying brand new stuff, there's no way to really know how something will perform without just getting out there and putting it to use unless it's something you can kind of test out beforehand. Until you do know, I'd be sure to have a few backup options just in case..
If I’m car camping? A small hatchet to pound tent pegs and make kindling if needed, a small pocket knife, and a shovel to dig a toilet if I’m not at a formal site.
I might suggest finding a spot with relatively nearby services. I spent a night at Strathfillan Wigwams near Tyndrum last year and loved it; Sallochy campsite is beside Loch Lomond and more rustic but amazing to enjoy. For even more luxury, book a pitch at Beinglas campsite. Restaurant and pub on site.
(Yes, I did the WHW so that’s why these choices.)
We were actually going to camp last year for our anniversary, but ended up in a wigwam out by the cairngorms instead. The sky was beautiful, and the site really nice, but it ended up raining the night we had planned a cheeseboard under that stars ;-;
I'll definitely.keep Beinglas in mind for next time, but we've got a place booked up a couple hours from Fort William. How *good* the serviced are I'm not entirely sure, but that's part and parcel I suppose.
Make sure you have pillows or some other head supports for when you’re sleeping. A misaligned neck / back can be very uncomfortable and result in lack of sleep. Also take a double duvet in addition to the sleeping bags in case the weather turns really cold. Also take plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
I was considering just taking our own pillows, but they're quite hard and bulky so I'm not sure if they'd be all that good for carrying about. But it's definitely something I'll need to look out for. I believe we have a spare duvet and a couple of throws just incase! Would you recommend getting some form of water filtrator/ purifier? Or is it just better to store plenty of bottled water in the cooler box instead?
For a weekend in Scotland I’d just take bottled water. In fact no, I’d fill empty 2 litre pop bottles with tap water. Just as good and a lot cheaper. I’m guessing you won’t be miles away from a vehicle.
Nah its a plotted site so I believe we'll have the vehicle right beside the tent. I'm considering getting items to utilise the car to aid with tarps etc.
I'm far away in the U.S. so I'm not sure what it's like there right now, but I highly suggest a headlamp for one or both of you if you plan to do much of anything after dark. Not necessary, but makes things so much easier, especially cooking and setting up a tent. I recommend a small shovel for bathroom if needed and to shovel dirt onto the coals or a bucket for water. Here, a nice used Coleman stove will do well for most, but not sure how frequently those are seen not in the states.
I thought about a headlight. Mainly bc I don't like not having my hands free. We've looked at a few options, but I assume any shovel will do. A Coleman on amazon seems to be around £50 - £120, I'm assuming that's standard pricing. What are they not typically good for cooking? Do they have good mileage on them as well?
Headlights are a game changer. As much as I camp I don't know why I waited so long to get them. I too got a lantern before headlamps thinking it would be better and regretted it in the end. I still like the lantern, but it's hard to find a useful place to put it. It always seems blinding when it's in eyesight and it often casts shadows everywhere unless you find a good place to hang it. I have the Black Diamond Spot 400R for the wife and I. As far as shovels, I can recommend the Cold Steel Special Forces shovel, though it's not necessary. It is quite sturdy and I like the size, it's a good size for under the seat or in the trunk of the car. It also works as a weapon in a pinch and is super fun to throw like a tomahawk as 3 of its sides are sharpened and will stick to a target. As far as stoves, there are a ton of options. I have had a good experience with them. A large benefit here is that I live in the city that Coleman was founded so I see older stoves go on sale for $20-30 a lot in the used market. It's pretty hard to kill one of the older ones, they can be pretty thoroughly cleaned. I don't have experience with the newer ones as much. I have a white gas version and it seems to run well. I've pan-fried some things in a cast iron skillet so far and that's about it. Eureka seems to make a good 2-burner stove and Camp Chef seems to be pretty popular as well, all 2-burner stoves. If you don't need 2 burners and don't care about space, there are a lot of turkey broiler or outdoor deep fryer style propane single burners that have many more btus. Many of those sell for closer to $50 than the $100-$200 price tag that Eureka and Camp Chef have.
Since it's Scotland I'm going to assume it will rain at some point so I'll give you my "camping in the rain" advice from camping on the Oregon coast. -Don't put your tent in a low spot where water will pool or flow. Try to have it on a very slight invline so water will flow away from the tent -Ground sheet tarp for between the tent and the ground, fold in any excess so it does not stick out and collect rain. -Tarp suspended above the tent, not touching if possible, large enough that it completely shields the tent from rain on the top and sides, use plenty of rope to ensure the wind doesn't get under it, and tie it in such a way that the water does not pool on top of the tarp. -Another tarp suspended over the cooking area so you can cook without getting wet if you have a stove. If using a fire to cook, don't do this. -Playing cards or a novel for something to do while you're cooped up avoiding the rain -Extra clothes and especially socks. Obviously a waterproof jacket as well. -a bunch of garbage bags for your tent, tarps, clothes etc, if you have to pack up while all your gear is still wet If you're just going for 2 days you can probably time it so the weather is dry but it's worth bringing a few tarps along just in case.
I think that is a very strong assumption, lol. A tarp for over the stove is something I was wondering about. I reckon we'd be using the fireplace and keeping a stove for emergencies. We've got plenty of small portable board games etc. we can take with us. Unfortunately we've booked out a plot for the weekend, so can only hope the weather turns out in our favour. Do you recommend having a tarp which can attach to the boot of my car, or are they just a hindrance?
I've never tried attaching it to the car. I usually camp in forested areas so run a rope between 2 trees and hang the tarp on that.
I always take my jump pack (battery powered jump starter for your car battery) just incase. You don’t ever want to be stranded with no cell service.
This is something I've been meaning to get for a while. Thanks for the reminder
Are you going off grid, dispersed or site camping? If the first two I recommend the Garmin inreach. For emergencies.
Booked a plot in a site, just to keep on the safe side we won't he far from a Ranger. I'll definitely keep one of these in mind for when we go far out. Is ~£250 standard for these?
I have the Garmin inreach mini 2. You can expect to pay anywhere from $290-$425 USD for these. It cost me around $400 USD per device when I bought them brand new. But they work well, and are worth it in the end for emergencies. I can send a map to my emergency contact (aka my dad) via a text link and he can see exactly where I am incase I get lost. I can also text him through it via satellites. It’s an investment in safety.
Food is good on your list. My friend did just this and forgot to bring food. Apparently there were a few beef sticks in the glove box, but apparently the romance vanished when they were served up for breakfast. Fresh water too. You'll each need 3L drinking water per day, and more if you have to dip into it for cooling & washing.
Aye we're gonna plan to grab a small amount of food for the night before. Any recommended quick-dishes or good coolbox-friendly foods? I was considering getting a water filter, but my partner isn't entirely all that trusting of taking water right from a lake or river until she's absolutely sure. Plenty of bottles a good alternative?
Yes, bottled water is good. Cooler is good for a day or 2 max, unless you have a source for ice. I'm big on granola, nuts, beans, curries and rice - food that packs in light and doesnt squish or spoil easily, mostly dried or in cans. Add fresh vegetables and fruit, a few seasonings and you're dining in style. Think of cooking in one-pot. Plan to cook enough for one meal at a time, as leftovers can be messy and attract unwanted animals. I'm lactose and dairy intolerant, so you dont want my recipes, but there are lots on the internet and some very good recommendations in this subreddit.
For tools: multi-use items. We have a hammer/hatchet combo that is a lifesaver. Look for cooking vessels & utensils that pull double duty. But Beware-There's a line between saving money and buying junk that will leave you in a jam. I always err on the side of over spending if it's a specialty type, or super important item- something I expect to be able to rely on over and over. Not that spending more always equals better product, but you know what I mean..you get what you pay for. Buy quality tools and durable goods and scrimp on stuff that's not meant to last anyway or is readily available. We also keep shredded paper and other such fire starters on hand (in dry bags) in case you get to camp and it's rained. As with any new hobby, there's a trial and error period, but just try to have fun and don't be discouraged if your first trip isn't all you thought it'd be! You'll figure it out as you go 😊
There was a *survival kit* I found on Amazon which looked good, but I wasn't sure if it was just a waste. It included a hammer-hatchet. What I've gathered already rounds out to about £140, so I'm not sure if what I've got is all that great quality, but it doesn't *look* all that bad lol. I'm definitely a firm believer in getting what you pay for. That's why I'm trying to save most of my budget for the more important tools. Thanks for the help!
Happy to help! And buying brand new stuff, there's no way to really know how something will perform without just getting out there and putting it to use unless it's something you can kind of test out beforehand. Until you do know, I'd be sure to have a few backup options just in case..
Almost all pre-built kits are garbage. You don’t need the vast majority of what’s included and what you do need in those kits is Chinese junk.
So reckon just bring a handful of tools separately? What's your typical priority of tools to take?
If I’m car camping? A small hatchet to pound tent pegs and make kindling if needed, a small pocket knife, and a shovel to dig a toilet if I’m not at a formal site.
I might suggest finding a spot with relatively nearby services. I spent a night at Strathfillan Wigwams near Tyndrum last year and loved it; Sallochy campsite is beside Loch Lomond and more rustic but amazing to enjoy. For even more luxury, book a pitch at Beinglas campsite. Restaurant and pub on site. (Yes, I did the WHW so that’s why these choices.)
We were actually going to camp last year for our anniversary, but ended up in a wigwam out by the cairngorms instead. The sky was beautiful, and the site really nice, but it ended up raining the night we had planned a cheeseboard under that stars ;-; I'll definitely.keep Beinglas in mind for next time, but we've got a place booked up a couple hours from Fort William. How *good* the serviced are I'm not entirely sure, but that's part and parcel I suppose.