Tenting 101: An Introduction to Sleeping Under the Stars
Your checklist for an easy camping experience and how to save with your CAA Membership along the way.
By Shel Zolkewich | Illustrations by LeeAndra Cianci
It’s the time of year to enjoy the great outdoors and camping is an ideal way to do it. If you’ve never slept under the stars, woken to the cooing sounds of mourning doves or waited for your morning coffee to percolate over an open fire, this guide can help you prepare for a Canadian summer rite of passage.
Why tenting?
Some forms of camping can be more involved. Backpacking means you’re hiking a trail with all your equipment for many kilometres to your campsite. Portaging means you’re carrying everything you need plus a canoe to cross waterways along the trail. But tenting (or car camping, as it’s called in some parts of Canada) means you drive right up to your campsite, park and then start setting up mere feet from your car. It means you can bring a bit more comfort to the “roughing it” experience. Your big pillow? Check. A favourite hardcover book? Why not? Your essential French press? But of course. And unlike RVing, tenting doesn’t require a big investment, knowledge of septic system drainage or a complete extra set of sheets.
Tenting is affordable, flexible and, with a little planning, can be one of the most relaxing and immersive ways to commune with nature. From national and provincial parks to private campgrounds, much of Manitoba’s — and Canada’s — breathtaking landscapes are right outside your tent. Stay by a lake, visit caves and search out constellations in the night sky. Get ready to pack some essentials and your sense of adventure and hit the road.
Camping gear
Here’s a list of essential camping gear and a few extras that are nice to have on the trip. Not sure if camping is for you? Consider borrowing or renting gear for your first foray.
If you’re purchasing some of the camping gear you need, don’t forget to use your CAA Membership for savings and perks. Shop online for a tent at SAIL, a cooler from Altitude Sports and a sleeping bag from Mountain Warehouse — and earn up to five percent back in CAA Dollars® at these eStore partners. (Partners and/or offers may change at any time.)
Camping Gear Checklist: Essentials
Tent: You’ll be sleeping in it and size matters. Make sure it’s big enough for the whole group. Be aware that tents are sized for the bare minimum to keep them compact for carrying on long hikes. Size up by two people — grab a four-person tent for two people and a six-person for four. The tent should also have a waterproof base; even if it doesn’t rain, morning dew can make the tent damp. Remember to bring a rubber mallet for the tent spikes.
Flashlight or lantern: With only the moon and campfire for light, you’ll need either or even both.
Pot, pokers, mugs and utensils: For your eating and drinking needs, you’ll have to plan well. Bring pre-made sandwiches, fruits and veggies or some charcuterie. For campfire cooking, skewer sausages or veggie dogs to grill. Bring foil-wrapped potatoes that can sit right on the coals until cooked through. And don’t forget the marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers for s’mores.
Lighter: No light, no fire. Bring more than one lighter or pack of matches for backup.
Fire materials: Never made a fire before? No problem. Just make sure to pack some newspaper to help it get going. You may also want to bring pre-made fire starters. These highly flammable discs or bundles will bring on the blaze when you light them. Hold off on bringing firewood. Many campgrounds prefer that you get your wood from them or the surrounding area to avoid introducing bugs or vegetation not native to the local zone that might infect it with an invasive species or disease.
Sleeping bag: Your sleeping bag should be suitable for the weather. Some bags are lightweight for summer; others are insulated and very warm, which are suitable for sub-zero temperatures. You can also opt to bring bedding — sheets and a duvet.
Sleeping pad: Whether blow-up or foam, sleeping pads add a soft layer between you and the hard ground. If you’re going for ultimate comfort, you can even bring an inflatable mattress. And don’t forget the pillows.
Cooler: As a portable fridge, your cooler does double duty — it keeps everything cold and prevents insects from finding their way in. You’ll also want to bring some airtight food containers to prevent animals and pests from getting into food or being attracted to it.
Extras:
- camp stove and propane
- wash basin, dishcloths and eco dish soap
- camp chairs
- garbage bags
- hammock
- clothesline
- French press
Visit Parks Canada to learn more about building a campfire safely and effectively. There are helpful tips and a video that walks you through the steps and and techniques, including the proper way to extinguish the fire. Before starting your campfire, check if the area has fire restrictions or a fire ban. You will need need to abide by the rules of your campground.
Choosing a campsite
Tenting sites offer convenience. There are usually level areas for pitching tents and, often, fire pits and picnic tables. Some sites feature water and electrical hookups with on-site bathroom facilities and even showers. Certain provincial parks also provide yurts and cabins to rent. There are also private campgrounds for tenting, some with more of a resort-like setting offering amenities such as mini-golf, pool, hot tub, restaurants and entertainment spaces. To camp at a provincial park, visit Manitoba Parks Reservation Services to get your adventure started. It’s always a good idea to secure a spot in advance. For some of the most sought-after sites and parks, you may need to book several months in advance. You can review the site map and pick a spot to your liking, and drive-ups are also welcome if the grounds are not full.
How to set up a campsite
Getting to a campsite before sunset is key, so you can set up with some daylight and familiarize yourself with the area to ensure it is safe from risk factors such as trip hazards. When pitching your tent, clear out big rocks or branches before you set it. Use a rubber mallet to hammer in the tent spikes, making sure first that the tent door opens where you want it. Inside the tent, it’s important to keep things organized. When setting up, choose a spot for the flashlight to avoid a scramble when heading out for that late-night bathroom trip.
Food storage while camping
All food needs to be stored carefully when not being consumed. If your food is left out, the insects and animals whose home you’re sharing will help themselves. Don’t trust everything to be safe just because it’s in the cooler — wildlife can be sneaky and determined. Locking food in the car is a good idea; slinging it up in a tree is also recommended. “Pack in and pack out” is the rule — when you leave, take everything with you. Don’t leave behind any waste, including food scraps or items you brought, to help preserve the campsite. If you’ve got soapy water from washing dishes, make sure to dispose of the dirty suds properly, well away from streams or lakes. When your campsite is set up, all that’s left to do is enjoy nature. Take a hike (literally). Or just relax, arrange those camping chairs around the campfire and savour the pleasures of disconnecting, surrounded by nature. CAA
Getting savings along the way
While driving to your campsite, don’t forget to use your CAA Membership at Shell. It will save you 3¢ per litre on fuel, plus 10% off instore purchases at participating Shell locations (conditions apply). Remember, snacks are essential for any road trip! And when you shop for groceries, use your CAA Membership to purchase e-gift cards at Sobeys, Safeway, FreshCo and IGA, which will earn you five percent in CAA Dollars®.
Shop CAA and Pick Up These Tenting Favourites
Discover these — and more travel-ready essentials — online and at CAA Stores.
Jack59 Weekend Edition Travel Set
Solid shampoo and conditioner bars are road-trip-friendly because they don’t leak, are compact and keep your hair shiny and healthy. Plus, they’re eco-friendly, vegan and Canadian-made.
Member Price $27.99
Non-member Price $31.99
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Tent: You’ll be sleeping in it and size matters. Make sure it’s big enough for the whole group. Be aware that tents are sized for the bare minimum to keep them compact for carrying on long hikes. Size up by two people — grab a four-person tent for two people and a six-person for four. The tent should also have a waterproof base; even if it doesn’t rain, morning dew can make the tent damp. Remember to bring a rubber mallet for the tent spikes.
Flashlight or lantern: With only the moon and campfire for light, you’ll need either or even both.
Pot, pokers, mugs and utensils: For your eating and drinking needs, you’ll have to plan well. Bring pre-made sandwiches, fruits and veggies or some charcuterie. For campfire cooking, skewer sausages or veggie dogs to grill. Bring foil-wrapped potatoes that can sit right on the coals until cooked through. And don’t forget the marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers for s’mores.
Lighter: No light, no fire. Bring more than one lighter or pack of matches for backup.
Fire materials: Never made a fire before? No problem. Just make sure to pack some newspaper to help it get going. You may also want to bring pre-made fire starters. These highly flammable discs or bundles will bring on the blaze when you light them. Hold off on bringing firewood. Many campgrounds prefer that you get your wood from them or the surrounding area to avoid introducing bugs or vegetation not native to the local zone that might infect it with an invasive species or disease.
Sleeping bag: Your sleeping bag should be suitable for the weather. Some bags are lightweight for summer; others are insulated and very warm, which are suitable for sub-zero temperatures. You can also opt to bring bedding — sheets and a duvet.
Sleeping pad: Whether blow-up or foam, sleeping pads add a soft layer between you and the hard ground. If you’re going for ultimate comfort, you can even bring an inflatable mattress. And don’t forget the pillows.
Cooler: As a portable fridge, your cooler does double duty — it keeps everything cold and prevents insects from finding their way in. You’ll also want to bring some airtight food containers to prevent animals and pests from getting into food or being attracted to it.
Extras:
- camp stove and propane
- wash basin, dishcloths and eco dish soap
- camp chairs
- garbage bags
- hammock
- clothesline
- French press
Tent: You’ll be sleeping in it and size matters. Make sure it’s big enough for the whole group. Be aware that tents are sized for the bare minimum to keep them compact for carrying on long hikes. Size up by two people — grab a four-person tent for two people and a six-person for four. The tent should also have a waterproof base; even if it doesn’t rain, morning dew can make the tent damp. Remember to bring a rubber mallet for the tent spikes.
Flashlight or lantern: With only the moon and campfire for light, you’ll need either or even both.
Pot, pokers, mugs and utensils: For your eating and drinking needs, you’ll have to plan well. Bring pre-made sandwiches, fruits and veggies or some charcuterie. For campfire cooking, skewer sausages or veggie dogs to grill. Bring foil-wrapped potatoes that can sit right on the coals until cooked through. And don’t forget the marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers for s’mores.
Lighter: No light, no fire. Bring more than one lighter or pack of matches for backup.
Fire materials: Never made a fire before? No problem. Just make sure to pack some newspaper to help it get going. You may also want to bring pre-made fire starters. These highly flammable discs or bundles will bring on the blaze when you light them. Hold off on bringing firewood. Many campgrounds prefer that you get your wood from them or the surrounding area to avoid introducing bugs or vegetation not native to the local zone that might infect it with an invasive species or disease.
Sleeping bag: Your sleeping bag should be suitable for the weather. Some bags are lightweight for summer; others are insulated and very warm, which are suitable for sub-zero temperatures. You can also opt to bring bedding — sheets and a duvet.
Sleeping pad: Whether blow-up or foam, sleeping pads add a soft layer between you and the hard ground. If you’re going for ultimate comfort, you can even bring an inflatable mattress. And don’t forget the pillows.
Cooler: As a portable fridge, your cooler does double duty — it keeps everything cold and prevents insects from finding their way in. You’ll also want to bring some airtight food containers to prevent animals and pests from getting into food or being attracted to it.
Camping gear checklist: Extras
- camp stove and propane
- wash basin, dishcloths and eco dish soap
- camp chairs
- garbage bags
- hammock
- clothesline
- French press
Jack59 Weekend Edition Travel Set
Solid shampoo and conditioner bars are road-trip-friendly because they don’t leak, are compact and keep your hair shiny and healthy. Plus, they’re eco-friendly, vegan and Canadian-made.
Member Price $27.99
Non-member Price $31.99