Top tips for camping virgin (with someone I rather fancy)

[Incipit]

Haven't ever been proper camping, and now going this weekend, for 6 nights. The friend I was to share a tent with has had to pull out, but she's lending me her gear. I still want to go because it's with a friendship group which includes a man I've been lusting over and have had very few opportunities to spend time with. So I don't want to look a complete incapable eejit. specially as I've got to drop DC off for their far more exciting holiday with my parents first, so will be arriving way later than everyone else.

I'm collecting the tent etc this evening and will practice putting it up. What else can I do in advance?

The weather forecast is for 23 degrees most days, but thunderstorms some days. Usually I pack light for holidays but I'm guessing I need plenty of layers and getting things dry will be difficult? Does it get chilly at night? Do people go to the showers/toilets in a dressing gown or a coat?

Basically any top tips will be gratefully received, and don't assume anything is too basic to need to be stated

The hoody thing sounds good

I haven’t given the hoody back yet! Feeling like a teenager.

A few of the others are still by the campfire so I’far too self-conscious to go out and squat. Though I’ve decided I might not actually need to pee - suspect I just think I do because I’m so aware of having no access to a loo

Just line the bowl/bucket with loo roll and you'll have a perfectly quiet wee

For future camping trips - always take an empty Lenor bottle for tent wees!

I’m worried I’ll run out later in the week. Considering sacrificing a tea towel if the urge increases!

@Workyticket

For future camping trips - always take an empty Lenor bottle for tent wees!

Why Lenor specifically?

Did ye get the ride

Placemarking

Big opening to pee into! Years since i did my 'research' so other fabric softener brands might be fine too 🤣

Lemon is concentrated now so has a little skinny opening 😆. This is why an Oody is essential for camping for cozy night time toilet runs. Who knows you might even run in to him on the way 👀

I use a little funnel to help get into the bottle then you can use anything (normal funnel not a she wee)

Good luck with today!

Best thread ever - far too late to it to provide any useful advice so shamelessly hanging around for updates 😁

So, those of you who choose to come camping on a regular basis… I’m either in awe or slightly scared of you. That was the most hideous night sleep I’ve ever had, and then the shower water was cold.
Meeting him now for a run in the beach in the drizzle which will I guess warm me up.

I always sleep really well camping. I think the mix of wine and more fresh air than normal. What was it that made it bad and maybe we can make some suggestions for tonight (although if it was pining of the hot guy then that's all on you to sort 👀😀)

@rantymcrantface66

I always sleep really well camping. I think the mix of wine and more fresh air than normal. What was it that made it bad and maybe we can make some suggestions for tonight (although if it was pining of the hot guy then that's all on you to sort 👀😀)

Ha! I think butterflies kept me going off to sleep to start with. But then it was that I wasn’t properly set up for bed - all the things I’d packed due to suggestions on this thread were split between different bags, and I was already cold, and after a trip over to wash I just jumped under the covers. So at 2 I was woken up cold, and had to get out of bed to root round for another set of pyjamas and socks. At 3 someone was noisy in another tent and I had to get up to look for ear plugs (which I didn’t find). And at dawn I wished I’d had my sleep mask on. Then it took me ages to get back to sleep each time. Also everyone else was knackered last night because they’d been paddle boarding all day. Whereas I’d been sat in a car. So today I need to get physically tired, and then get properly organised for the night before it gets dark. Also, not let myself get so cold to begin with; the run has helped with that. And probably I should drink more! Anything other suggestions v welcome!

So how was the run with hot guy? Important stuff to focus on, not sleeping info! 😁

Haha sorry you had a rubbish night. Sounds like the lessons learned will help you tonight. Don't think I have anything else to add (except the company of said man) 😁

Unfortunately a few other people noticed us heading off for a run and joined us, so we didn’t get any time alone. And then someone else had made loads of breakfast just as we arrived back. So only been with him in a group this morning. It was easy to snuggle with him by the fire last night in the dark with a glass of wine. Hopefully again tonight! Or maybe sooner - everyone’s splitting into smaller groups and heading in different directions.

First rule of camping - first night’s sleep is always awful. By night 3 you’ll be sleeping like a baby…

Yes that’s why you have to go camping for at least 3 nights. First night or two horrendous sleep, after that it’s utter bliss and you’ll sleep through it all. Unfortunately that can also mean very loud snoring, which also travels very well, less than sexy!!

Did you wear a hat and socks in bed? Sometimes that's more effective on it's own than pjs. Just a hat and socks can be quite appealing, too...

@TheFoundations

Did you wear a hat and socks in bed? Sometimes that's more effective on it's own than pjs. Just a hat and socks can be quite appealing, too...

😂😂

First night camping is like the first pancake.

Placemarking shamelessly

What's the plan or this afternoon, op? A nap? Or a hearty activity?