Camping & Outdoor Survival

Enjoy the Outdoors, Prepare for the Unexpected

Camping offers an opportunity to enjoy nature, spend time with family, and explore new places. However, changing weather, unfamiliar surroundings, limited communication, and unexpected injuries can create challenges. Good preparation and basic outdoor safety knowledge can help you make more informed decisions.

1. Choose Your Campsite Carefully

Select an authorised campsite suited to your experience and the conditions. Check the weather forecast, local rules, terrain, and nearby hazards before setting up. Avoid areas vulnerable to flooding, falling branches, or other environmental dangers.

2. Check the Weather Before Leaving

Weather conditions can change quickly outdoors. Review forecasts and local warnings before your trip, and be prepared to postpone or change plans if severe weather is expected. Carry clothing suitable for the conditions.

3. Pack Essential Supplies

Prepare enough food and drinking water for your trip, along with suitable clothing, a first-aid kit, lighting, navigation tools, and a charged phone. Consider extra supplies in case you are delayed longer than expected.

4. Tell Someone About Your Plans

Share your destination, route, group details, and expected return time with a trusted person. Let them know if your plans change, and agree on what they should do if you fail to return as expected.

5. Use Fire and Cooking Equipment Safely

Follow campsite rules when using stoves or campfires. Keep flames away from tents, dry vegetation, and other combustible materials. Never use fuel-burning cooking equipment inside an enclosed tent or poorly ventilated shelter because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

6. Protect Yourself from Environmental Hazards

Wear appropriate footwear and clothing, use insect protection where needed, and check for local wildlife warnings. Store food properly and keep a safe distance from wild animals. Avoid touching unfamiliar plants, mushrooms, or wildlife.

7. Keep Your Group Together

Agree on meeting points and basic communication plans before exploring. Children should remain with responsible adults, and everyone should know what to do if separated. Avoid unfamiliar routes or activities beyond the group's abilities.

8. Know When to Turn Back

If weather deteriorates, someone becomes unwell, or the route becomes unsafe, stop and reassess your plans. Returning early or seeking assistance is often safer than continuing in difficult conditions.

9. Leave the Campsite Safely

Before leaving, check that cooking equipment and fires are completely extinguished according to local guidance. Pack your rubbish, inspect the area for forgotten belongings, and follow local instructions to protect the environment.