choosing the right equipment...

If you are starting from scratch, there can seem to be a daunting amount of equipment on offer. Don't panic! Apart from the tent the only essentials are something to sleep on, warm bedding, lighting and cooking equipment.

Tent

Dome tents, frame tents, pop-up tents, tents come in all shapes and sizes so you're bound to find one to suit your family and budget. You will need to allow for enough space to sleep and store your belongings, and it is worth seeking advice. Whichever tent you choose, test it out if you can. Practice pitching in your garden so you know what you are doing - when you arrive at the campsite in the middle of a rainstorm is not the right time to be reading the instruction leaflet!

Camping beds

The key to comfortable camping is a good night's sleep. Motorhomes or caravans mostly have built-in mattresses, but tent campers will need something like a camp bed, airbed or a sleeping mat to get them off the cold, hard ground. If you want to travel light then self-inflating sleeping mats are a good solution.

Bedding

A well-rested camper is a happy camper, and for that you need to be warm. Sleeping bags are a popular choice - check that yours is warm enough for the time of year you will be camping. Some people prefer to bring duvets, though there are more bulky to transport.

Lighting

If you don't want to go to bed with the sun, you will need lighting for in and around your tent, usually either a gas or battery-powered lantern. Caravans or motorhomes may have electrical hook up. Either way, don't forget a torch so that you can find your way back to your tent or van after an evening out or a trip to the loos. A head torch is convenient and has the advantage of leaving your hands free.

Cooking equipment

To start with you will need a stove. There are lots of different ones to choose from, running on different types of fuel, though gas canisters are the most popular. For lightweight campers will get by with a single burner stove, but if you're catering for a family you may find a double burner easier. You will also need a water container, cutlery, mugs, plates or bowls and pans, if they are not included with the stove.

Beyond these basics there are loads of things to make you more comfortable. You might want to include camping chairs and a table, a camp kitchen to put your stove on, or a windbreak. Some people like the pared down approach, others love their gadgets - and there's plenty of these to choose from, from camping fridges to solar showers. If you're new to camping, start with the basics and add more equipment when you know from experience what will make your life easier.