1. Preparing for completely the wrong weather.
Although we can all dream on and imagine that summer will be warm and dry, in reality it is sometimes considerably wet and at times can be very cold. Spring and autumn can also surprise us by dishing up some very hot days and the odd storm.

The important point is, that no matter what you think the weather is going to be like, or even what it’s forecast to be, do prepare for every eventuality. Take those socks and an extra blanket, just in case.

2. Pack the right amount
It’s hard to take just the right amount with you – and that could be where experience comes in to play. Packing 5 outfits for a 2 night stay isn’t unheard of. Forgetting underwear or pyjamas isn’t either. Write a list that you can reuse and amend each time you go and you’ll get it down to a T.

3. Not freezing food for the cool box
You could have invested in the fanciest and most technologically advanced cool box in the shop, but if you don’t take steps to freeze your food before you put it in, it will only last for 2 or 3 days. If you add a bag of ice along with your ice blocks, you can go up to five days without needing an electric hook-up.

4. Not researching the local area first
We all have become nonchalant about having continuous WiFi access and therefore when it’s not there we are quite often surprised and even disappointed. Be sure to do your research prior to leaving home. For example, make a note of where you are going, how to get there and a rough idea of what you hope to do when you are there with important facts on cost and opening times.

5. Not checking battery levels
Pulling out a dead torch isn’t anybody’s idea of having a stress free camping trip. Check all your appliances beforehand so that you know if you have to get any batteries on the way.

By taking note of this possibilities, you’ll save yourself having to go through some of the discomfort of when camping trips can go slightly off track.