Essential equipment includes:

• Tent (with stakes and a rainfly)
• Sleeping bag suitable for the weather
• Sleeping pad or air mattress for comfort
• Portable stove or campfire equipment, cooking utensils, and food supplies.
• Esky, fridge or food storage container is important for perishables. 
• First aid kit
• Torch or headlamp with extra batteries
• Multi-tool or knife 
• Appropriate clothing, including layers for warmth and rain protection
• Water bottle or hydration system
• Personal items like sunscreen, insect repellent, and hygiene supplies

To choose a good camping spot consider:

• Accessibility and proximity to amenities like water and restrooms
• Look for a flat, well-drained area to set up your tent, away from potential hazards like falling branches or flooding
• Ensure the site is within allowable boundaries and adheres to local regulations. 
• Check for privacy and distance from other campers to enhance your experience. 
• Consider the availability of shade or shelter from the elements. 
• Assess the terrain for ease of setup and safety. 
• Review weather forecasts and potential wildlife activity to ensure a comfortable and secure camping experience.

• Always set up your tent in a safe, level area away from hazards like cliffs or water. 
• Keep food stored securely to avoid attracting wildlife. 
• Use a campfire safely, ensuring it’s fully extinguished before leaving. 
• Carry a first aid kit INCLUDING a snake bite kite and know basic first aid procedures. 
• Stay informed about weather conditions and be prepared for changes. 
• Use a torch or headlamp to navigate after dark and avoid walking alone.
• Follow local regulations and respect wildlife. 
• Keep your campsite clean and follow Leave No Trace principles. 
• Ensure your gear is in good condition and check for safety recalls.

• Use designated toilet facilities if available; otherwise, follow local guidelines for creating a suitable waste area, like a “cat hole” for human waste. 
• Secure all trash, including food scraps and personal items, in sealed bags.
• Use biodegradable soap for cleaning dishes and wash away from water sources to avoid contamination. 
• Dispose of greywater properly, following local regulations. 
• Keep hand sanitizer or hand wipes handy for cleanliness. 
• Use a portable toilet if camping in areas without facilities, and ensure it’s used and cleaned according to manufacturer instructions. 
• Maintain good hygiene to prevent illness.

• Start by selecting a flat, well-drained area free of rocks and debris. 
• Lay out the tent footprint or groundsheet to protect the tent floor. 
• Unpack the tent and assemble the poles according to the instructions. 
• Insert the poles into the corresponding sleeves or clips on the tent. 
• Raise the tent by carefully fitting the poles into their sockets and securing with stakes. 
• Ensure the tent is taut and adjust the guy lines for stability. 
• Attach the rainfly, ensuring it overlaps the tent body to prevent leaks. 
• Secure the tent with additional stakes if needed and check for proper ventilation.