Seting up for Family style camping

[P4trol]

Cuppa' right. 'camping' is such a broad term. For some it is sleeping in a bivvy bag straight on the ground. For others, it's being able to see the bush from the 5 star motel. We all have comfort levels, which often change depending on the expectations of our better half.

An analogy that not everyone will get, is to compare your camping plans to a baby birthing plan. (for those wondering about a birthing plan: usually for first time mums. Often it goes like this: I'll give birth in this position, with this candle burning, this cd on, etc etc. It's all pie in the sky theory until you actually do it. When it comes time for it, that position is too uncomfortable, the candle stinks, and "turn that stupid music off!" GIVE ME THE GAS!!) But I digress.

Often we romantisize camping, and make irrational plans. The best way is to make a few educated judgements, and test them out with a short trip. Come back, analyse the success or failure. Ditch stuff, modify, get more stuff if necessary. (for example I went for a month long trip. At the end, I decided I didn't need the gas bottle, as I mostly used gas cans and fire. I also need to build a shelf to sit the water container on when stopped)

Lots of short shakedown trips. Practice makes perfect.