How to make your camping holiday the perfect getaway
Camping here at Riddlesworth Park offers a unique escape into the great outdoors – we love the serenity of nature, but those modern comforts are a must too. Whether you’re visiting us from within East Anglia or from London, camping is a fantastic holiday choice that not only rejuvenates your mind and body but also strengthens family bonds. But nothing beats getting a good night’s sleep, so here I’ve pulled together our family’s ideas for what transforms a camping break.
Camping: More than just tents and sleeping bags
I recall a memorable camping trip with a group of school mums. Our children spent the day playing football, climbing trees, and inventing games on the rope swing – a truly idyllic day. But as soon as darkness fell, it became so dark that we couldn’t even see our hands in front of our faces. This led to an impromptu early bedtime – something we might not have minded so much if it hadn’t been for the next challenge: the composting loo. While the idea is charming, the reality can be a bit…raw, especially on a hot day. These early experiences taught me several valuable lessons that I still follow today.
Top camping tips for your next camping holiday:
Choose the right tent for your family’s comfort
The first step to a smooth and enjoyable stay is choosing the right tent. Make sure your tent has plenty of space for everyone. Give it a trial run at home before you venture out to avoid any surprises.
This way, you’ll be able to pitch it easily and know where all the essentials – like pegs and ground mats – are. For the best camping experience, a spacious, high-quality tent can make all the difference! Ask around to see if you can borrow one before making an expensive purchase.
A good night’s sleep is essential – that’s actually one of my life rules (camping or not!).
Invest in a quality blow-up mattress for a comfortable night’s rest. Don’t forget an electric pump to save time and effort (no one wants a dizzy spell from blowing up a mattress…or six!).
A restful sleep will help you feel rejuvenated, ready to explore the stunning Norfolk-Suffolk countryside, or enjoy an outdoor adventure.
It’s important to have reliable lighting. Battery-operated camping lights are inexpensive and can even double as stylish additions to your outdoor table at home.
Keeping one close by, particularly as a bedside light for children, ensures that you won’t fumble around in the dark. Although we have automatic lights around the loos, kitchen and The Barn, having your own portable light for everyone in your family will make your trip safer and more enjoyable as you unwind under the stars.
Quick note though, zip up!
There’s nothing more annoying than a tent that’s alive with the fluttering with moths!
For families with young children, bedtime stories are a wonderful way to end the day after a fun-filled adventure.
Instead of carrying heavy books, why not download some favourite stories and new discoveries on your device (pre-loading them means you’re not reliant on Wi-Fi)?
These will be the special stories that your family remembers from your “amazing camping weekend in Norfolk.” (Check out our Bedtime stories under the stars Blog for recommendations!)
Food is one of the true joys of camping! While it’s great to plan ahead and have some essentials delivered to your campsite, nothing beats the experience of picking up fresh, locally grown produce.
Norfolk and Suffolk are home to fantastic farmers’ markets and food shops where you can discover delicious seasonal offerings. Not only does this make your meals more enjoyable, but it also supports the local community.
Check out Ben’s Why does outdoor cooking always taste better? blog.
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