Camping guide to ... accessories - part 1

YOU can make your camping life a lot easier by taking with you accessories other than just the basic camping equipment.

Obviously tent, stove and sleeping bag are at the top of your camping checklist but there are many other items you should pack to ensure you're ready for any on-campsite eventualiity.

Here are 10 useful accessories to consider:

> Be prepared to tackle the nightmare of a tent or stove fire. Do not leave fire extinguishers at home (hopefully, you have got one), take it with you and keep it handy on site. Check out how to use it effectively before it is needed in earnest.

> A tough, collapsible, washbowl takes up little space, but makes the trip to and from the hot water sinks a lot easier. It is surprising how many other uses it can put to on site.

> One of the cheapest camping accessories, a set of tablecloth clips defeats the best efforts of a stiff breeze to disturb a meal. They fall into the category of ‘hardly worth bothering with, but actually really useful’.

> It is such a simple thing, but a folding lightweight mesh laundry basket helps to bring order to a crowded tent. Think beyond dirty washing to make the most of this dirt-cheap storage.

> A little dustpan and brush make keeping the tent clean a great deal easier.

> Often overlooked, the simple tea towel and a roll of absorbent kitchen paper are soon missed if forgotten.

> A large tarp extends living space and offers shade or protection from rain. They are readily adaptable to the size of your pitch and easily moved as needed.

> Remember to pack sunscreen, aftersun and insect repellent.

> A flag on a tall pole will help your kids spot your tent when camping on a crowded site.

> Nobody is immune from accidental damage. A repair kit for your tent and airbeds is a useful precaution.

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