My First Camp

Camping is a fun way to get away from it all, enjoy the outdoors and meet new friends. Our camps usually include optional walks. We run camps from 10 members in small campsites shared with the public to our biggest event with up to 500 members, taking over a rugby club.

Having the right kit is important to have an enjoyable break. Camping can be a cheap weekend break, so you don’t need to break the bank with loads of expensive kit. Our advice is start small.

If you’re trying it for the first time, can you borrow a tent to keep the cost down. At some of our larger BIG Event camps we have the option to hire a tent – this will be listed in the event if available.

Basic tents start from around £30, you’ll need a mat to sleep on and a warm sleeping bag. Bring plenty of dry warm clothes as it can be damp and cold at night.

Regular campers may bring gas camping stoves or BBQs to cook food. Bear in mind if you’re travelling by train or bus to pack light so you can comfortably carry your kit. Some members simply opt for cold, pre-cooked food or you can usually cook on your neighbours BBQ (if BBQs are permitted at the site).

Our BIG Events are a great intro to camping as they sell breakfast, packed lunch and cooked dinner. They offer areas for new members to camp together to help set-up and meet new friends.

If you’re attending a winter camp or wild camping read the event guide or speak to the leader as more specialised kit may be required to keep you warm and safe.

Events often post chats so you can car share or a member can offer to pick you up from the local train station.

When you arrive check-in with the leader who will show you where OutdoorLads are set up. If you need help setting up, there is usually a willing volunteer.

There is often a briefing on the first night when the Leader will explain the activities for the weekend.

More info

The event page details the camp site location and facilities and any optional activities. 

What to bring recommends suggested kit for the weekend including  clothing for any of the activities. 

You’ll need your own towel and toiletries.

Don’t forget a charged battery for your phone as plugs are unlikely to be available. Bring a torch and any essential medicines.

For walks we recommend a backpack for water, food, extra layers and waterproofs to stay dry, jeans are best to avoid as uncomfortable when wet.

Food & drink details the food for the weekend. Camping usually requires you to bring your own food and there is unlikely to be any fridges. Some campsites may offer a small shop or there maybe a pub nearby – check the event for details. Some campsites are remote with no shops for many miles, so come prepared for the weekend. Bring any drinks and snacks for the weekend.

Check any food required for the activities, often a packed lunch is required and a bottle of water. 

Meeting & times shows the start time and likely end time. The leader will be there early to meet the group and show you where to pitch your tent.

See who’s already going shows the event leader and other OutdoorLads attending.

Who are our Leaders?

Our Leaders are OutdoorLads volunteers. They have been trained and assessed to be capable of leading camping weekends, including member welfare and leading any of the activities.

They are stars putting in huge amounts of time, planning and effort to make the weekend run smoothly and safely.

During the weekend if you have any questions or need any help, just ask the leader. If there are any problems please speak to the leader to give them an opportunity to fix it right away.

If you have any questions please contact the leader or contact us.