10 Costly Camping Mistakes Beginners and Pros Still Make

Camping is awesome. A lot of people love it, and it’s honestly one of the best ways to disconnect from the noise and reset your mind.

However, camping is also the fastest way to realize that being outdoorsy and being prepared are two totally different hobbies.

And yeah, I’ve made basically all of these mistakes at least once. Some of them more than once, if we’re being honest.

So here are the big camping screw-ups people make all the time, and exactly how to avoid them like a pro.

1. Showing up way too late

Be careful because this one is sneaky, and it’s one of the most common.

A lot of people don’t really think about the timing and just figure they’ll make it there by sunset without any issues.

Then you’re setting up a tent in the dark, your headlamp is dying, and suddenly your relaxing trip turns into a nightmare.

Always keep in mind that setting up in the dark is way more difficult, and even finding your site can be annoying.

Aim to arrive with at least 2 hours of daylight left. Even if you’re quick, you’ll be happier.

2. Not checking the weather

Some people check the weather once (like a week before) and then they’re shocked when it rains.

Weather changes. Especially in the mountains. Especially near water.

And don’t forget the wind, wind can ruin a trip faster than rain sometimes.

Check the forecast the night before and again the morning you leave.

Look at temps, wind, and rain chance. Also, pay attention to low temps, not just the high. Nights get cold.

3. Bringing the wrong sleeping setup (tent or RV)

If you’ve never slept on the ground, it sounds simple, but it’s not just bringing a sleeping bag.

You should always bring a sleeping pad. And match your sleeping bag to the coldest night’s temperature, not the average.

In addition, people think an RV automatically means perfect sleep. Not always.

The mattress can be thin, lumpy, oddly short, or slide around. You can consider a mattress topper, and don’t forget to bring your own pillow if you’re picky.

4. Overpacking or underpacking in a dumb way

Overpacking is classic. You bring four jackets and a cast-iron pan, and somehow no spoon.

Underpacking is also a thing. Like bringing one pair of socks for a weekend and thinking you’ll be fine.

The best thing you can do is to pack in categories: sleep, cook, eat, warm, rain, light, first aid, toiletries.

Make a list of the items you need for each category, and please write it down so you can add anything else you remember and cross off the items you’ve already packed.

5. Not practicing setting up the tent

This is one of the biggest traps. You buy a tent, it looks easy on the box, and then you’re in the campground arguing with poles.

Also, there’s always that one clip that refuses to clip. Always.

If you buy a new tent, try setting it up at home once. Even in the living room if you have to.

Learn where the poles go, how the rainfly attaches, and where the stakes should sit. It’ll be 100% easier when you do it a second time.

6) Forgetting about food storage

If you camp where animals exist (almost everywhere), leaving food out is a biggg mistake.

Squirrels and raccoons are geniuses at stealing it. And in bear country, it’s not just about losing snacks, it’s about safety.

So keep food sealed. Use a cooler, food bin, or bear canister when needed.

And please don’t leave snacks sitting in the tent. The animals will definitely smell it.

7. Making a huge fire

People either bring zero fire stuff and then stare at wet wood, or they build a giant bonfire.

Big fires are never a good idea. Smaller fires are better. Easier to control. Easier to extinguish. Less wood wasted. Less smoke bothering everyone around you.

Also, a lot of folks forget local fire rules. Restrictions change all the time depending on drought, wind, and season.

8. Not having light when it matters

It’s funny how fast it gets dark when you’re trying to cook or find the bathroom.

A common beginner mistake is relying on a phone flashlight instead of bringing proper lights.

It’s always better to bring a headlamp per person if you can. Plus one lantern for the picnic table. And extra batteries.

9. Skipping the boring safety stuff

First aid kit. Bug spray. Sunscreen. Water plan. People ignore these because they’re not fun.

Of course, everyone hopes nothing bad ever happens, but it’s always better to be prepared.

So remember to pack a simple kit: bandages, blister care, antiseptic wipes, pain reliever, tweezers.

Bring bug spray and sunscreen. And know where your water is coming from. Dehydration sneaks up fast outside.

10. Having no backup plan

This is the big secret. Camping is way better when you have small comfort tricks ready to go.

Because something always happens. Wind. Rain. Cold night. Neighbor running a generator all night (we’ve all met that guy).

If your only plan is hope, you’re gonna be miserable.

You can bring one comfort upgrade you actually use: a warmer layer, better chair, extra blanket, rain tarp, or a simple hot drink setup.

And keep your expectations realistic. Camping is fun, but it’s still a little chaotic sometimes. That’s part of it.