Wild Camping for Beginners – My First 6 Months

Introduction: Why Listen to a Beginner?

You might be wondering, “Why should I take wild camping advice from someone who’s only been doing it for six months?” And the answer is simple: because I just started. I remember the confusion, the gear decisions, and the nerves of that first night alone in the woods.

A lot of expert advice comes from people who camped decades ago. But wild camping has evolved. This post is for modern beginners, from a fellow beginner who's learned by doing—during storms, on cold nights, and with affordable gear.

What Wild Camping Looks Like in 2024/2025

The Storm Darragh Experience

I filmed this trip during Storm Darragh, so safety was my priority. With wind howling and rain coming, I scouted a low, flat area sheltered by natural vegetation. Avoiding trees during a storm is key.

I used walking poles and a tarp instead of relying on branches, setting up before the worst of the storm rolled in.

The Gear That Worked – Budget-Friendly & Effective

Sleep System Essentials

• OX Flux 7R sleeping mat – 7.2 R-value, extremely warm, budget-friendly (£60 at Go Outdoors)

• Flextail gear pump/light combo – lightweight and dual-purpose (pumps mat and acts as dimmable lamp)

• Pillows: Cheap inflatable one and a soft backup pillow for comfort

• Sleeping Bag: British military Arctic sleeping bag – warm and durable, even in 0°C

• Night clothes: Merino socks, thermal top, military long johns in a dry bag for warmth

Shelter Choices

• Tarp Setup: DD tarp and ridgeline held with walking poles

• Tent: OEX Phoxx 2 for extra protection

For me, comfort and warmth were key starting points. Getting cold overnight is the easiest way to hate your first wild camp.

Cooking in the Wild – Simple but Satisfying

My Cooking System

• BCB British military cook system – Compact and solid

• Trangia alcohol burner – Lightweight, low-cost, and reliable

• Silicone mug – Only £3, space-saving, great for hot drinks

• Aluminium table – Lightweight folding table for convenience

• Cheap cutlery set – Switched from a spork after... accidentally eating it (yes, really)

Steak & Simplicity

I cooked a rump steak using the Trangia setup, seasoned with Aromat (new to me), and it worked brilliantly. Wild cooking takes longer—but that’s the point. Every step slows you down.

Even making tea becomes a meditative experience.

Mental Health and Me-Time in the Outdoors

Wild camping is about more than gear. It’s about peace, presence, and getting away from a screen-filled world. For me, it’s a reset button.

When you’re watching your steak cook slowly on a whispering flame or sitting quietly while your porridge bubbles, you’re giving your brain a break. A space to breathe. That’s where the healing begins.

Advice for New Wild Campers

Start Small, Stay Warm

• Use a two-person tent, even solo – more space = better sleep

• Invest in your sleep system – avoid £30 bags and no mat

• Start somewhere familiar – even your garden counts

• Don’t expect perfection – first nights are often restless

Clothing & Comfort Tips

• Use layers – base, mid, top, waterproofs

• Focus on feet – cold feet ruin nights

• Try army surplus – great gear on a budget

Extra Must-Haves

• Knife: Victorinox Spartan (used daily)

• Power bank: To charge phone/lights

• Toileting gear: Plan for it—it will happen

Key Takeaways from My First 6 Months

• You don’t need expensive gear to start—just the right gear.

• Prioritise warmth, dryness, and comfort.

• Focus on sleep system > shelter > cooking.

• Wild camping is slow and intentional—embrace the pace.

• Mental clarity is a huge benefit. The woods are good for the soul.

Final Thoughts: Would I Do It Again?

Absolutely. In fact, I already have. Each camp teaches me something new. From Storm Bert to Storm Darragh, to accidentally eating my spork—I’ve learned what works, what doesn’t, and what matters.

If you're just starting out, my biggest advice? Just try it.

So what’s your first wild camp going to look like? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your plan.

In this video, I share essential wild camping tips for beginners, based on my first 6 months of experience. From choosing the right shelter and sleep system to avoiding common mistakes, this guide is perfect for anyone looking to start camping in the wild. I also discuss how wild camping benefits mental health, the best budget-friendly gear, and how to stay warm in bad weather.

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