How to have an unforgettable camping trip this Valentine’s Day

• Make sure to have a griller, canopy, chairs, tables, dishwashing soap and a sponge. As mentioned, some campsites offer these items for rent. Alternatively, you can purchase them from sports stores or shops that specialise in outdoor gear. A griller is the easiest equipment to use for cooking your food at camp, a canopy will provide shelter and shade from the sun, and tables and chairs are needed for eating and lounging. Don’t forget to bring dishwashing soap and a sponge, especially if you plan to bring your own plates, utensils and cooking gear.
• Wear dry-fit clothes, a hat and sunglasses. While it’s usually windy and chilly at campsites, there will always be a time of day when it’s scorching hot. Because of this, wearing the right clothes is a must. Anything dry-fit and breathable will keep you cool despite the (sometimes) hot weather. Avoid wearing black clothing and remember to bring a hat or cap, along with a good pair of sunglasses.

Tatler tip: Keep a pack of cooling wipes with you at all times, just in case it gets too hot.

• Pack a flashlight, first aid kit, extra clothes, pillows and blankets. While packing a flashlight, first aid kit, extra clothes, pillows and blankets may seem obvious, some people still forget to bring them. These items are especially important for those staying overnight, not just for day trips. However, those going on a day trip can also bring these items as needed.

Tatler tip: I highly recommend wearing waterproof shoes so you’re ready for the rain or when crossing rivers. Additionally, bring extra slides or slippers just in case.

• Bring a power bank or power station. Most campsites do not have sockets for charging, so it’s best to bring your own power bank or power station. You can charge your devices with the power bank and plug in bigger items, such as a fridge, fan or rice cooker, using the power station.

More from Tatler: 7 romantic getaways for a spontaneous Valentine’s Day

During your camping trip

Now that you’ve prepared your camping equipment and essentials, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty of things during your camping trip—whether it’s a day trip or an overnight stay.

• Once you get to the campsite, make sure to apply sunblock on your face and body. Afterwards, spray on some insect repellent to protect your skin from mosquitoes.
• Wear a hat and sunglasses before setting up your camp! Doing so will make preparations much faster and easier.
• Set up your canopy—make sure to do this together, as it’s not an easy task. This will serve as your shade the entire time, so set it up well. Next, bring out your chairs and tables. It’s best to have at least two tables: one for cooking and one for eating.

• Bring out your cooler or fridge so you have easy access to drinks, raw meat and ingredients.
• Set up your grilling station—this should be outside the canopy to prevent smoke from collecting under it.

The activities you can do will depend on the campsite. However, some activities are generally available, such as birdwatching, engaging in heart-to-heart conversations, lounging, jamming and building a campfire.

Tatler tip: While I highly suggest embracing the fact that the campsite does not have a signal, in any case that you need an internet connection, you can ask the staff, and they will provide the Wi-Fi details for you. However, do note that not all sites will have internet access, but the caretakers might know of a location where you can get a signal (it may be just a few steps or a short drive away).

One campsite I would recommend for both first-timers and frequent campers is River Ranch in Tanay, Rizal. This site is probably one of the most popular for those who want to camp just a little closer to the metro. The ranch offers clean, well-maintained bathrooms, as well as a river that campers can swim in or relax by, with chairs and a beer in hand. This is also my go-to campsite whenever I want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Tatler tip: If you can, try to go on a weekday to avoid the crowds. With such a massive ranch all to yourselves, you can even play sports like frisbee, badminton and volleyball.

1. Plan your trip. Prepare a checklist of things to bring so you’re sure you have everything before and after your camping trip.

2. Check the weather forecast. It’s best to be aware of the weather conditions to ensure your safety. You can also check the official social media page of the campsite you’re visiting for updates.

3. Test all your camping equipment before packing. You don’t want to be surprised by an equipment malfunction.

4. Charge all your devices. This includes your phone, laptop, power bank, fan, camera and power station.

5. Be sure to contact your preferred site and let them know your situation, especially if it is your first time camping and you do not have much equipment yet.

6. Feel free to offer some of your food to the campsite staff and caretakers.

7. If there are dogs, cats or other animals at the site, be gentle and offer only food they can eat.

8. If the campsite you’re visiting has a river where you can dip or swim, wear footwear at all times. Rivers often have slippery and sharp rocks.

9. Make sure to dispose of your trash properly before leaving the campsite.

10. Wipe the dirt off your chairs and tables before packing them up.

11. Wash your dishes before leaving so you won’t have to when you get home.

Now that you know what to prepare and pack for your camping trip, the only thing left to do is enjoy the moment. For first-timers, your first camp is undoubtedly a unique experience. But from it, you'll learn what to bring—and what not to bring—on your next camping trip.

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