Camping Hacks To Take Your Outdoor Experience To The Next Level

Although many of us often spend our time thinking about the day ahead - going to work, what we will have for dinner, and whether there is anything binge-worthy to watch all evening - some of us long to break away from the rat race every now and then. Sound familiar?

Going camping is a great way to get away from the rest of the world. The best bit? Thanks to some incredible camping hacks to take your outdoor experience to the next level, it doesn't have to be as challenging as it seems on the surface.

1. Rolling outfits together means you can organize them by day for ease

Heading camping usually means we’re going to be pretty close to a lot of dirt, even when the weather is on our side and the sun’s shining. That likely means we’ll need plenty of clothes, especially if we plan to head into the woods or enjoy activities while we’re away. How are we supposed to keep them organized?

That’s where one of the simplest camping hacks comes in. All you need to do is plan the outfits for your trip and roll them together. Not only does this make them easier and more space-effective to pack, but it also means you can grab an entire outfit from your box or bag without having to root through everything.

2. A piece of paper is perfect for temporarily fixing a puncture in bike tires

One thing many of us love while camping is getting out to explore the area. One of the best ways, of course, is on your bike. While flying down the trails with the wind in our hair can be an amazing feeling, getting a puncture in our bike tire can be enough to put a damper on things.

It turns out all you need is a piece of paper to get back on the road. Many have spare dollars or gum wrappers in our pockets. All you need to do is fold the paper and slide it into the tire’s inner wall. Inflate your tire, and you should at least make it back to your tent.

3. Using foam tiles is one of the great camping hacks to make things more comfortable

If there’s one thing that can be enough to put many of us off the idea of camping, it’s the thought of trying to sleep on the floor. After all, a lack of sleep can be detrimental to our health at the best of times and make it tough to enjoy our camping trip if we’re constantly tired.

Thankfully, something as simple as foam tiles is one of the best camping hacks. Not only are they usually cheap, but they’re also perfect for slotting together to make a cushioned base for your sleeping bag. To top it off, being so light means you shouldn’t notice the extra weight as you hike to your camping spot.

4. Minnows can be kept fresh with a splash of hydrogen peroxide in your bait box

What’s a camping trip without a fishing adventure? Plenty love nothing more than spending their day by the water. Still, the heat combined with being away from home means we might find our bait is a little less than fresh after a few days. Have no fear; one of the best camping hacks could be here to save the day.

Using minnows is a popular choice, and simply adding a capful of hydrogen peroxide to your bait bucket could be all you need to increase the level of oxygen in the water. Now, your minnows should be more lively and work as better bait whenever you’re ready to head to the water for the next catch of the day.

5. A simple head torch and water jug trick is one of the best camping hacks for light

A head torch is one of the many ways we can enjoy a little light during our camping trip. They’re perfect for any late-night hikes or those bathroom trips in the middle of the night. Just because we remembered to take one along for the adventure doesn’t necessarily mean we remembered to pick up the camping light. Sound familiar?

So long as you have a water jug, you can make your own. Simply fill the jug with water and strap the head torch, so the light is pointed in. Then, flick the light on, and voila! As if that wasn’t enough, you can drink the water and use the head torch once you’re done, meaning nothing is wasted.

6. Biodegradable trail-marking tape should stop you from getting lost

Plenty of people want to ensure they plan an eco-friendly camping trip where possible, and thankfully, there are plenty of ways we can enjoy the outdoors without disrupting Mother Nature. Using biodegradable trail-marking tape is one on the list. Of course, the best thing is to remove the tape once you’re done, but we can all be a little forgetful.

Using a biodegradable option means we can mark out our hiking route or the way back to our tent to ensure we don’t get lost, and it will naturally rot down over time if we accidentally leave it behind. Simply tie the tape to any trees or branches as needed and let it do its job.

7. Fishing rod storage racks can be crafted at home from wire racks

The end of the season doesn’t mean we have to forget all about our camping hopes and dreams. In fact, it can be a chance to get everything organized and ready for next year. So what about the things that can sometimes take up more room than feels necessary? That can often be the case for fishing rods.

Thankfully, making a homemade storage solution doesn’t have to be as challenging as it seems. Simply attach the racks wherever you like in the home, such as on the wall or your garage roof. Once in place, slide your fishing rods into their new home, and they should always be there waiting for your next adventure.

8. DIY lanterns are one of the great camping hacks and fun for the family

Want a way to have fun with your family before even heading on your next adventure? You’re not alone, and thankfully, some of the best camping hacks do just that. Creating DIY lanterns for your camping trip should help little ones feel a bit more confident when dealing with the dark as they can enjoy their own creations.

There are plenty of ways to make glow-in-the-dark lanterns, such as mixing glue with glowing paint and spreading it on the inside, using glow-in-the-dark paint to create patterns on the jar, or using glow sticks to bring the lamp to life. Whichever you choose, it should be enough to add a magical glow when the sun goes down.

9. Duct tape can be used to make guylines if one of yours is missing

There are camping hacks, and then there are camping hacks that can be just the answer we need in an emergency. Most of us likely check our tents before heading off on an adventure, but that doesn’t mean everything will be there once we arrive at the campsite. Plus, things can quickly get broken if we’re not careful.

Not having a guyline could mean our tent collapses or blows away, meaning we need an alternative just in case. Thankfully, packing some duct tape could be all you need. Rip a length of duct tape in half, attach it to something heaving, and start twisting until the tape is nice and tight. Who needs the original guylines anyway?

10. Sandwich bread in a can is one of the best food camping hacks for travelers

Did you know that sandwich bread in a can is a thing? While it’s long been one of the best-kept secrets for campers everywhere, it’s now one of the incredible camping hacks many can enjoy to take their adventure to the next level. One of the best things is it can be made before you leave to save time.

Learning how to make bread in a can is also super simple, as you only need a few ingredients - such as olive oil, flour, salt, white sugar, active yeast, and water - to make a simple dough before letting it rise in the can and baking for 30 to 40 minutes. Now, you can enjoy bread no matter where you are.

11. A bike can easily be used to open bottled drinks

When it comes to camping hacks, there’s nothing in the rules that says you can’t show off to your friends at the same time, right? Of course not! Thankfully, there’s an easy way to do both, providing you need to open a bottle of drink and have someone around to show off your skills at the same time.

All you need to do is flip your bike over, so the wheels are in the air. Then, get someone to turn the pedals as fast as possible and gently hold your bottle drink next to the tire. The motion should be enough to pop off the cap, which is great if you suddenly remember you forgot your bottle opener.

12. Create your own matchbox to ensure you can always light your fires

Heading camping and finding your matchbox has broken can often be enough to see plenty of us panic. After all, how are we supposed to build a fire without a way to get it started? Learning how to build the perfect campfire is the best place to start before getting your matches ready to get things going.

To avoid any unwanted surprises, take a piece of sandpaper and a box or jar before you go. Then, simply attach the sandpaper to the outside of your match container - to ensure you don’t accidentally create sparks while traveling - and you should always have a way to light your matches. Of course, this can be customized any way you like.

13. A laundry basket makes a great tent trash can to save on space

Going camping a few times can often show us what works - and what doesn’t. Thankfully, camping hacks are there to ensure everything runs smoothly, such as keeping our tents clean and tidy. That means having somewhere to keep our trash to ensure there’s no mess and we don’t leave anything behind when we’re ready to go.

However, taking an entire trash can might take up a lot of unnecessary room. Instead, a collapsible laundry basket could be the perfect alternative. You can pack it away while traveling to and from the campsite and even give the laundry basket a new lease of life once you’re home. Does it get better than that?

14. Colored tape added to fishing rod handles should make them easier to identify

Many anglers have a host of fishing rods in their collection. The sport is a great way to relax while camping and could even give us something delicious to eat at the end of the day. Several have also learned they need a different fishing rod depending on the fish they want to catch and the water they’re using.

So how is someone supposed to tell them apart with just a glance? If you want to make things easier, then simply grab some colored tape to add to the handles. Be sure to color-code your tape, such as using one color for heavy rods, one for medium-heavy, and one for light or medium actions.

15. Spices can easily be traveled in Tic-Tac boxes for one of the simpler camping hacks

Cooking is an essential part of camping. After all, there is nothing like gathering around the stove or fire at the end of the day and enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones. Although camping means we’re usually away from our home comforts, that doesn’t mean we have to miss out on flavors while cooking.

Rather than try to pack your entire spice rack, collecting old Tic-Tac boxes should be all you need. Simply wash them thoroughly and ensure they’re clean and dry before adding whatever spices you want to take camping. Just be sure to label the boxes, so you know what’s in each one before showing off your cooking talents.

16. Bagging toilet paper is one of the camping hacks you don’t want to skip

When it comes to camping hacks, anything that makes using the bathroom a little more pleasant is usually high on people’s list of priorities. Thankfully, there could be a way to ensure you’re never caught short without toilet paper - or tissue that’s battled the elements and lost during your camping trip. The secret to keeping it safe?

That comes in the form of a plastic bag or any plastic jar large enough for the roll. Using a container means you can cut a slit in the side, so you never have to remove your toilet paper, keeping it nice and dry. However, using a plastic bag is also great for those in a pinch.

17. Binder clips are great for keeping tents open with no damage

There are often times when something seems to annoy us more than it should. When it comes to camping hacks, there are plenty of ways to rid our trip of those annoyances, such as the tent doors continually falling down when we want them open. Some of us are lucky enough to have a tent with built-in ties.

However, these can quickly break, and not all of us have them. If that sounds familiar, then you might need one of the most simple camping hacks that involves nothing more than some binder clips. Use them to keep your tent door open without causing damage to the material, and merely remove them once you need to zip things closed.

18. Ointment can be packed into straw segments to make them easier to pack

There’s a good chance many of us have traveled only to find one of our bottles has somehow come loose or opened along the way and covered everything in whatever was inside. Even if we’re lucky enough not to find a shampoo explosion in our bags, we might not want to carry entire bottles of ointment while camping.

If that sounds familiar, grab some straws, a lighter, and your cream. Cut the straw into small pieces before sealing one end with the lighter, taking care not to get burned. Fill the segment with the ointment before sealing the other end, and voila. Now, those bug bits or rubs shouldn’t be a problem when you’re away from the tent.

19. Pool noodles are great for storing fishing hooks on the go

Going fishing while camping often goes hand in hand. If you want to enjoy the water and catch food for your trip, there’s a good chance you might have a host of fishing hooks in your collection that all need to be stored safely when not in use. After all, most of us don’t want to endure a hook injury.

It turns out there’s a simple way to keep things safe - and you only need a pool noodle. There are several camping hacks to keep your hooks stored safely, such as cutting slots in a segment of pool noodle and keeping them inside or pushing the sharp tips of the hooks into the pool noodle to keep them covered.

20. Creating coffee bags is one of the great camping hacks for those who need their cup of joe

Most of our mornings often start with the same routine: wake up, head to the coffee pot, and grab a cup of joe to get things started. Thankfully, heading out into the great outdoors doesn’t mean we have to miss out on our morning pick-me-up when we have some incredible camping hacks at our disposal.

All you need are some coffee filters, your coffee, and dental floss. Open up the coffee filters before adding a spoon or two of coffee into the middle of each. Bunch these up and securely tie them with some dental floss to create your coffee bags. Simply drop them into hot water whenever you need your next dose of caffeine.

21. An emergency blanket is excellent for camping hacks to keep your tent cool

There’s a good chance many of us have a host of items to hand just in case there’s an emergency while camping. An emergency blanket is something so small yet so useful. Amazingly, it seems it has a multitude of uses that are the basis of plenty of camping hacks. Did you know they can keep your tent cool?

That’s right; we no longer have to worry about battling all the bugs and anything else that comes our way from having the tent unzipped, as placing an emergency blanket over our tent means it should reflect the sun away and keep the inside a few degrees cooler. It’s simple but something that can make all the difference.

22. Electrical tape keeps cages in place while protecting your bike

If you find yourself wanting to take a bike trip while camping, then you might want to know one of the best camping hacks to keep your equipment in place - and protected. All you need is a little electrical tape, and you should be good to go. While cages are meant to stay in place, they can sometimes scratch.

Of course, this isn’t ideal, especially if you’ve spent a lot of money on your things. Rather than leave it to chance, wrapping some electrical tape around your bike before adding the cage should protect the frame. From there, place your cage over the top and tape it once again to hold it in place.

23. Soap leaves achieved with a vegetable peeler is one of the simpler ideas

Heading out for a camping adventure usually means we need a host of things to ensure we have everything we need, but that doesn’t always mean we need the entire thing. Soap is one on the list. After all, why waste space and make your pack heavier than it needs to be by taking a whole bar of soap?

Before you head out the door, take a vegetable peeler and start shaving off slices of soap that are large enough for a single-use. Be sure to add a few extra pieces just in case before packing them in your bag. Did you know that soap can also reduce the itchiness of any big bites, too?

24. Debris can be used to pack a flat bike tire for one of the biking on the go

Taking our bikes camping is something many of us do. However, not everyone is prepared for when something goes wrong. Thankfully, one of the easier camping hacks could be all we need to at least get us back to our tent. If you find you have a puncture in your bike tire and you’re miles from home, then don’t panic.

Instead, look around for any debris that can be used to pack your tire, such as fallen pine needles, leaves, and anything else that could be lying on the floor. Simply stuffing this into your tire should be enough to get you back to the campsite without having to walk your bike home before you can repair the puncture.

25. A plunger in a bucket can be used as a washing machine while camping

When it comes to camping hacks, not all of us think about washing our clothes. However, there are plenty of times we might need some camping hacks to keep our clothes clean, such as falling down and getting dirty or forgetting our clothes outside in the rain. What if we told you there was a simple way to clean laundry?

You merely need a plunger and a bucket. Grab a large enough bucket to hold your clothes and cut several holes in the lid, including one in the middle big enough for the plunger. Once you’ve made your washing machine, put the clothes in your bucket with some water and laundry detergent before plunging your way to a clean wardrobe.

26. Strapping round objects to the handlebars on bikes keeps things sturdy

Bikepacking is one of the latest trends to sweep the nation, and there are plenty of ways to give it a try. However, learning a few camping hacks before you set off could make all the difference. For one, learning how to pack your bike is one of the best ways to ensure you stay upright and don’t overload yourself.

This usually means evenly spreading weight across your bike, such as attaching round objects to your bike’s handlebars. Things such as dry bags, fly rods, and sleeping bags are perfect for this and can be held in place with purpose-made straps if you have room in your spending or small belts or string if you’re on a budget.

27. Attaching pool noodles to a laundry basket is one of the best hacks for fishing

There are so many camping hacks that can improve all aspects of our trip, such as using pool noodles and a laundry basket to create a floating fishing basket. They can be used for all kinds of things, such as keeping an impressive catch by your side as you wait for everyone else to appear or keeping fish fresh.

Sadly, they’re not something everyone has. If you want one but don’t want to spend a fortune, you might be in luck. Grab an old laundry basket - with holes - and cut segments of pool noodle long enough for each side. Cut a split into the noodles to slide over the edges before using cable ties to keep them in place.

28. Use an egg carton to create one of the easiest ways to transport charcoal

Let’s face it; carrying a bag of charcoal can get pretty heavy pretty quickly. What if we told you there were some camping hacks to make things easier than ever? As if that wasn’t enough, it turns out you only need an egg carton to make life more straightforward. Start by grabbing an empty one from the recycling.

Then, fill in each of the holes once used for eggs with a piece of charcoal, and that’s it! Yes, this is one of those camping hacks that really is that easy, as the carton can be slid into any box or bag without getting things dirty. Just be sure you have enough charcoal packed for your trip.

29. Keep bugs away and things organized by hanging camping gear around your tent

Believe it or not, but there is more than one reason to bring one of the more impressive camping hacks to life. It turns out hanging things around your tent is a great way to keep bugs out of your tent, as they don’t like flying in areas where things are moving, which is why many use fans at home.

Another reason to hang things in your camp is that it can help keep things organized when living in such a small space. This could be something as simple as tying your laces together to hang shoes and using clothes hangers for your outfits or investing in purpose-made storage options if you want to keep everything in its place.

30. One of the best ways to start a fire is using Doritos for kindling

Camping and snacks are two things that go oh-so-well together, as many can’t wait to stock up on all their favorite foods. Chips are likely high on most people’s lists as they’re easy to store, are usually a fan favorite, and won’t spoil in the woods. Did you know they might also have another use?

If you find yourself in the middle of the woods with no kindling and you need a fire, simply grab some Doritos, and you should be good to go. Start by breaking the chips into small pieces and arranging them all in a small pile before setting them alight and building your campfire as usual.

31. Pool floats can double up as camping beds if you’re low on space

If you already have a pool float, then you might have everything you need to make the perfect camping bed. While some of us are content sleeping on the floor, others want a little more support during their camping trip. Thankfully, simple camping hacks can make those dreams come true as pool floats can double up as camping beds.

Not only should this give you a softer place to sleep, but it also means you can enjoy some comfort without taking up too much room. After all, simply inflate the float whenever you make your camp before letting all the air out and rolling it up, ready to go home again. Yes, it really is that simple.

32. Corks can be used to keep fishing hooks covered

If you’ve ever been on the wrong end of a fishing hook, there’s a good chance you know you never want to experience it again. They can be tough to keep in one place, let alone know how to protect ourselves from the sharp end. What if one of the simple camping hacks was enough to keep your hands safe?

That’s right; it could be time to start collecting all the old corks from drinks as they’re perfect for storing fishing hooks. Merely grab a cork and push the hook into the material to keep things safe. Of course, this also means we can recycle our corks without having to throw them in the trash.

33. Cooking meat can marinate with rosemary on the coals

Going back to basics while cooking on camping trips is one of the many things people love about heading to the great outdoors. However, that doesn’t mean we have to compromise on flavors when cooking over a campfire. In fact, one of the simplest camping hacks to add some extra bite to your meal is adding rosemary to the coals.

Taking rosemary along means we can quickly marinate our meat as it cooks. To start, light your fire and allow the coals to turn ashy gray before grabbing your sprigs of fresh rosemary and sprinkling them over the coals. Finally, add your vegetables and meat as you would usually while stoking the fire now and then for more flavor.

34. Adding clothes to sleeping bags can help keep feet warm at night

Thankfully, there are plenty of camping hacks to help keep warm in a sleeping bag at night. However, one of the simplest on the list is to add dry clothes to the bottom of your sleeping bag for a little extra insulation. After all, being in the great outdoors means we don’t have the luxury of turning up the heating.

Instead, take things like sweaters, jackets, or warm sweatpants and push them to the bottom of your sleeping bag. The extra layers should help you keep warm so you’re not stuck unintentionally enjoying the night sky while trying to figure out how to warm up. Plus, it means we don’t have to pack anything extra to stay warm.

35. Keep mosquitos at bay by throwing sage onto the campfire

When it comes to camping hacks, many of us will do just about anything to keep the bugs from ruining our time with Mother Nature. Sure, they’re a part of being outdoors, but being covered in bug bites and unable to sit outdoors at night thanks to the bugs can be enough to ruin a camping trip.

Did you know that mosquitoes don’t like sage? It’s a simple tip, but one that could save a lot of discomfort in the long run. Bundle up a few handfuls of dried sage before heading to the campsite and pull them out whenever needed. Simply throwing the bundles onto the fire should be enough to ward off the mosquitoes.

36. A tarp and bike can be used to make a makeshift shelter if needed

While many of us don’t like to think we will have an emergency while camping, learning some camping hacks in case one does occur should mean we have everything we need up our sleeve. So long as you have a tarp and bike, you should be able to make a makeshift shelter for the night.

Start by flipping your bike upside down before covering the wheels with one end of the tarp. Stretch it out and attach the other end to the ground with guylines or use something heavy - like rocks - to keep it in place. Finish by tying the front of the tarp in place on the bike, and you have somewhere to rest.

37. Quickly tighten your headset cap on your bike by flipping it upside down

Just because they say riding a bike is something we never forget doesn’t mean that we all know what to do when something goes wrong. Heading camping means we likely need to learn the basics as we might be far from professional help. Thankfully, some fixes are pretty simple, such as a loose headset cap.

If it’s already attached underneath, then simply undo the screw, flip the entire thing upside down, and retighten the headset cap in place. It turns out the new angle means we have a few more millimeters to play with due to the contours of most bike frames, so we can get the screw tighter than the other way around.

38. Cooking ideas while camping see orange peels used to cook cinnabuns

Did you know that oranges are one of the best fruits to take camping? Requiring no preparation means they’re safe inside their peel and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. However, you might want to think twice before getting rid of the peel. That’s because it can also be used as a pan for cinnabuns.

Slice the fruit in half and remove the fruit before adding in things such as store-bought cinnabuns or anything else you want to cook over the campfire. Add them to the new pan and place them on the coals until they’re fully cooked. The best bit? Orange peel pans can also be used for things like eggs while camping.

39. Corks are one of the best ways to avoid sinking sunglasses

Heading camping is just the beginning for many. There’s a good chance plenty of people want to enjoy all things outdoors during their trip, such as spending time next to the water. From fishing to splashing in the lake and everything in between, there’s a good chance we might need our sunglasses while out and about.

Perhaps you’ve experienced the dreaded sinking sunglasses when they’re slipped from your head and fallen into the water? Have no fear; thanks to camping hacks, that should be a thing of the past. All you need to do is drill a hole through an old cork, slide a lanyard through, and attach this to your glasses so they’ll always float.

40. A scavenger hunt is one of the great ways to keep children amused

Going camping with little ones is an experience many families look forward to. Still, it’s not always as simple as it seems on the surface. For one, it might not be long before they start complaining about being bored. Why not make something to keep them busy before heading on your next family camping trip?

One of the easiest camping hacks for traveling with children is to make a scavenger hunt to follow. Add on things you might spot while out and about, such as certain plants, animals, or shapes, and help them look for them all on your next hike. The best bit? It can quickly turn into fun for all the family.

41. Adding candle wax to tent zippers should protect them from the elements

When it comes to camping hacks, there’s a good chance many of us want to ensure our equipment is kept safe and sound. The tent zipper isn’t something all of us think about - until it goes wrong. Plenty of us love to use candles while we’re camping, and the wax could be all we need to save our zipper.

Wait until your candle has cooled before grabbing it and rubbing the wax up and down the zipper. Not only should this mean it slides up and down with ease, but the wax should also mean the rain doesn’t have so much of an effect on your zipper. That’s right; zipper rust should be a thing of the past.

42. Plenty of ideas involve safety pins and fishing

Who would have thought that adding safety pins to our bag could be one of the best camping hacks in the world? After all, there are so many ways they can be used while we’re away, such as holding things together, pinning stuff out of the way, and when we need something sharp to use.

It turns out that safety pins can also be used when fishing, such as a way to keep our fishing hooks organized. Merely slide the fish hooks and swivels onto the safety pin before doing it up and storing it away wherever it’s needed. Now, we should no longer have to deal with our hooks spilling everywhere in our bags.

43. Frozen water jugs are great for keeping coolers cold while camping

Camping hacks are all about thinking to the future, such as learning how to pack the perfect cooler. One of the many things to consider is how much ice you need for your cooler to keep things cold. If you’re heading away for a long trip, then a ration of two parts ice to one part food is usually recommended.

Rather than waste space with ice packs, why not freeze some water instead? Not only do most of us have spare bottles lying around the house, but it also means we can drink the water once it’s melted. On the other hand, things such as pasta sauce or chili can be frozen in bags and used as ice packs instead.

44. Floaters and bobbers can be made from old corks for one of the craftier ideas

Camping hacks are about more than just learning how to survive in the great outdoors; it can also be about learning how to take the things we have in our everyday lives and turn them into something useful. One on the list are all those corks we might have lying around. Who knew corks and fishing went so well together?

Cut a length of wire slightly longer than the cork and push it through the middle before creating a hook at each end. Push the ends of the hooks into the cork until they’re buried, and there are no sharp edges. Now, you have a floater that costs nothing more than some wire and a cork.

45. Add duct tape to your water bottle in case you need it in an emergency

There are plenty of camping hacks that see duct tape come into its own. After all, there are plenty of reasons that it’s a great addition to bring along on every camping trip, but what if you leave it in the tent when you’re exploring the local area? Thankfully, that might no longer be an issue.

That is if you wrap lengths of duct tape around your water bottle before you head out for the day. Cut as many lengths as you might need and attach them to your bottle. You can even add a piece of card or plastic to the end so you can grab the tape in a hurry without scrabbling.

46. Sleeping bags can be held together with kids’ belts

There is nothing in the rules that says we have to spend a fortune to have an adventure when it comes to camping. Thankfully, plenty of camping hacks mean we can save some money along the way while having fun. One of the many things that might get lost is the straps used to keep sleeping bags rolled up.

Sound familiar? Rather than having to invest in a new sleeping bag or trying to find spare straps, you could have something to hand that’s just as good. That’s right; kids’ belts can be used instead. Being smaller means they’re usually the perfect size for most sleeping bags, so you shouldn’t be stuck without straps for long.

47. Using an easier gear is ideal if your rear shift cable snaps

Riding a bike is something many of us love to do while camping, but what if we told you some camping hacks could also help if we find ourselves in a jam? The rear shift cable snapping can often feel as though we have to call it a day on our bike ride, but that might not be the case.

Start by looking for the high limit screw that’s usually labeled with an “H.” Loosen this until you can force the derailleur into a lower year. Get this into place by lifting the rear wheel and winding the pedal a few times to get the chain into the cassette before retightening the screw and getting back on board.

48. A tealight and tin can make the perfect camping pancakes

Getting outdoors is often about taking a break from the rest of the world and going back to basics. Perhaps you want some camping hacks that mean you can have fun with the rest of the family? You’re not alone, and you might not have to look too hard to find just what you need.

Tin can pancakes are great, and you only need a few things to get started. Get a clean can and drill some holes around the base. Then, cut a section large enough to slide a tealight in and out. Finally, light the candle and pour your pancake mix on the base before leaving it to do its thing.

49. Add silica gel packets to your tackle boxes to avoid any rust

Have you ever noticed those little packets in clothes or packages and wondered what they’re for? You’re not alone, and many of us end up throwing them in the trash. However, one of the best camping hacks means it could be time to save them instead. That’s because they make great additions to tackle boxes.

Silica gel packets are used to absorb moisture, which is why they’re often added to our things, meaning they are perfect for any water that accidentally ends up with our fishing stuff. Those hooks we forgot to dry are something many have seen rust throughout the years, but with a few silica gel packets, that’s a worry of the past.

50. Deodorant can be used to relieve itching from bug bites

While getting away from the world can be a great way to reset our minds, it can also lead to some issues. After all, getting eaten by bugs and being left with all those itchy bites can be enough to put a damper on most of our moods. It turns out some camping hacks could be all we need.

If you run out of ointment or suddenly realize you left it at home, you might not be entirely out of luck. That’s because deodorant can also be used to calm any itchiness. Simply apply deodorant over any bites that are causing you issues and give it a few moments to sink in to get the ultimate relief.

51. Quick fixes should help keep dirt from shoes out of your tent

One of the best things about camping hacks is they can save us plenty of trouble further down the line. If you find your camping buddies keep bringing mud into the tent, you might want to invest in a shoe basket. Even if you remove your shoes at the door, it can be easy to get mud on the floor.

Investing in something as simple as a plastic box or old laundry basket means we now have a reminder for everyone to remove their shoes before they get into the tent, somewhere to keep them out of the way, and a place to store them without getting mud on the floor. Do camping hacks get any better than that?

52. PVC tube is great for making knife covers to keep everyone safe

Food? Check. Tent? Check. Everything you need to cook a delicious meal? While they might be packed and ready to go, there’s a good chance that camping hacks could make things even better. Packing knives can be dangerous at the best of times, let alone when they’re in a backpack or cooler ready to take to the great outdoors.

Thankfully, some PVC tubes are all you need to keep things organized and safe. Start by gathering some that’s wide enough for your knives and come with caps. Then, cut a length long enough to hold the entire knife before placing it inside and covering both ends with the caps. You can even label the tube for ease.

53. Stop meat from burning with simple ideas that utilize cabbage leaves

Creating a campfire and getting to work cooking a delicious meal is one of the best things about camping. That doesn’t mean it’s easy. While it can be easy to think cooking over open flames is no different from making a meal at home, it might not take long to learn that’s not always the case.

Thankfully, some camping hacks could be all we need to make food that’s just how we like it. Be sure to bring some cabbage leaves camping if you plan on cooking meat. Simply wrap them around the meat before adding them to the coals to ensure it cooks evenly without getting burned from the fire.

54. Soaking cotton pads in wax is one of the great DIY ideas for fire starters

Building the perfect campfire is something many keen campers hope to achieve. However, getting it going is often one of the more challenging parts of the process, especially if you don’t want the extra weight of carrying fire starters in your bag. Thankfully, camping hacks mean we don’t have to worry about getting a fire started anymore.

That is if you have some cotton pads soaked in wax to hand. Simply melt some wax from any candle, soak cotton pads in the liquid, and allow them to solidify before packing them in a Ziploc bag for your camping trip. Now, you have the perfect DIY fire starters to cover all of your camping needs.

55. Campers can make guylines more visible are simple when they have pool noodles

Pool noodles seemingly have an endless list of uses - including helping keep people safe around the campsite. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling with little ones or you’re a particularly clumsy person. It can be easy to forget about the guylines keeping our tent up as plenty have tripped and fallen on them throughout the years.

If you want to ensure your tent stays up throughout your entire trip, you might want to take some pool noodles with you. Be sure to invest in ones that have holes through the middle so they can easily slide over the guylines before you secure them in place. Now, they should be visible even after the sun goes down.

56. Solar lights are a great source of light while away from home

Sometimes, it’s not until we try to live without the comforts we’re so used to in our everyday lives that we realize a few things: including just how dark it is outside. While being away from the world means we can enjoy stargazing as we camp, there are times we might need a little more light.

So what are we supposed to do when we have no electricity? Thankfully, that’s where Mother Nature can save the day once again. One of the best camping hacks is packing some solar lights before heading off on your adventure. Simply place them where they’re needed and let the sun do its thing before night comes around.

57. Life-saving camping hacks could be as simple as fishing line and a cork

When it comes to camping hacks, those that save our lives could prove more valuable than most others in the world. It’s always best to ensure you’re prepared for an emergency just in case, such as having a way to get food if you find yourself stuck in the wilderness. It turns out you only need a few things.

Start by taking a cork and wind a lengthy section of fishing line around the entire thing. Finish your creation by adding a few fishing hooks - just in case one gets lost or broken - into the top, and you now have a makeshift fishing rod you can keep in your backpack any time you head away from the campsite.

58. Plastic sleds can be used to quickly move heavy items through the woods

Hands up if you’re guilty of trying to take everything with you on your camping trip just in case you need it? Packing everything but the kitchen sink can seem like a great idea until it comes to moving everything to your campsite. This might not be an issue if you can park your vehicle next to the tent.

However, if you need to hike to your spot, you might need some camping hacks to keep you covered. Simply investing in a plastic sled is all you need to move stuff from A to B. Merely load up the sled, keep it in place with a few straps or some rope, and drag your things to wherever they're needed.

59. Creating homemade fishing rod storage is one of the quicker storage ideas

Camping hacks are more than just finding a way to make things easier while you’re away from home. They can also be a great chance to keep everything organized once we’re back, such as spending some time on a DIY fishing rod storage solution. The best bit? You only need some PVC pipe and a pool noodle.

Start by cutting holes large enough for your fishing rod handles along the PVC tube. Once they’re ready, attach the pipe to the wall and fit a pool noodle a few feet higher up. Then, make cuts into the noodle that line up with the holes so the handles fit in the holes while the rod slides into the noodle.

60. Cover holes in boots with duct tape to avoid wet feet or blisters

Duct tape has so many uses, including being the basis for plenty of camping hacks. It turns out it can also be used for those irritating moments our boots start to rub. This could be something simple like wearing a hole in our shoes or not breaking in a pair of hiking boots before we leave.

Whatever the case, taking duct tape in your bag could be all you need to be the leader of camping hacks. Simply break off small pieces of the tape that are large enough to cover the hole. Then, add several layers until it’s nice and soft to ensure your blister is a thing of the past.

61. Create a makeshift shower using a bottle and watering can head

While heading camping is all about embracing the great outdoors, that doesn’t mean we have to miss out on some home comforts. Want to enjoy a camping trip but worry about how you will wash? Have no fear; some camping hacks could be all you need. In fact, all it takes is a bottle and watering can head.

Grab a bottle large enough to hold enough water for a shower. Then, grab a watering can head and attach it to the opening of your bottle - one with a tap also means you can turn it on and off with ease. Simply fill up your “shower” whenever you want to wash and hang from a tree when you’re ready.

62. Zip two sleeping bags together if you want to share body heat

Going camping doesn’t mean we have to spend time on our own. After all, plenty love to head off with their loved ones, so why do we have to sleep in our sleeping bags alone? It turns out we don’t have to. In fact, most sleeping bags zip together with ease, making this one of the best camping hacks.

That’s right; all you need to do is line the zips up together, and you suddenly have a sleeping bag that’s double the size. This is great if you want to share body heat with your partner or if you want to turn your sleeping bag into a sheet to make things more comfortable as you sleep.

63. Pre-crack your eggs into a bottle for one of the speediest camping cooking ideas

There are plenty of ways to prepare and store food before heading off camping. However, one thing that can be enough to worry many people is the idea of getting their eggs there in one piece. Not only will we be missing food, but we’ll also have quite the mess to clean once we arrive.

If you plan on cracking your eggs once you’re there anyway, you might want to consider one of the simplest camping hacks. All you need to do is crack your eggs into a bottle, and you no longer have to worry about them breaking en route. The best bit? Simply shake the bottle and pour for scrambled eggs.

64. Plastic drawers can be used to keep the trunk of your car organized while camping

Getting everything to the campsite might not be an issue for some. However, keeping it organized might be just the thing that’s been keeping people up at night. This can be especially tough when you’re packing for several people and have a host of food you need to take along for the ride on top of all those clothes.

Rather than stuff everything in the trunk and hope for the best, it might be time to make use of any spare plastic drawers lying around the house. Simply place them in the trunk and fill them with everything you need, so that stuff all has its place for one of the quickest camping hacks on the market.

65. Use shower caps to cover dirty shoes before traveling home

Getting out and about is probably high on people’s lists of priorities when camping. Sadly, this can sometimes mean our things are a little dirtier than when we first packed them for the trip. It could be time to start saving all those shower caps from hotels or other goodie bags for one of the best camping hacks.

Why? They are perfect for keeping our clothes clean from dirty shoes. Simply place your shoes into the caps before packing them away, and the shower caps should keep all the first inside. Then, all you need to do is clean your boots once you’re home, and you should be ready for your next camping trip.