Dreaming of the perfect beachfront camp? Check out these top tips from the Adventuring Pals

Some think camping may not be glamorous, but there’s nothing better than waking up to that million dollar view of the ocean at your doorstep. With so much of Australia’s vast coastlines on offer, the best way to experience them is to go camping.

Here are some beach camping tips, which will help ensure your sandy adventure will be one to remember for all the right reasons.

Location, location

Be aware of your surroundings and weather conditions. Orientate your tent/camper so that the least amount of wind and weather are directed at the entrance.

Once you figure that out, then look at the ground and give it a good rake or brush to remove hard sticks, stones and in general level things out.

Also keep in mind where the high tide mark is, as you don’t want to set up your camp within the intertidal zone!

Sand pegs

The pegs supplied with tents and awnings simply won’t cut it in the sand. They won’t be able to withstand gale force winds. You will need to get yourselves some special sand pegs to keep your tent firmly anchored to the ground. These are designed specifically for the sand and will keep you well and truly grounded throughout the night.

Shade and shelter

When camping on the beach, it is essential to have some sort of shade or shelter to keep things out of the harsh sun and elements. We found having our 4WD awning out was useful in providing shelter for us to place our chairs and supplies.

Another great way to provide this is by using a gazebo, especially if you are staying at the site for longer than just a couple of days. It is just as useful having shelter available when the weather turns and it rains. Nothing worse than a soggy campsite with soggy gear and supplies.

Keep it clean

Keep your campsite clean with these beach camp essentials.

•  Sand mats

We found sand mats are great, especially when little kids are around. It made it easier to maintain the campsite, keep it tidy and keep sand out of the tent/camper. With a quick brush the sand is gone. The mat also provides a base to set up camping chairs on.

A mat at the entrance to your tent/camper will also help stop the sand coming into the tent, and also a place to leave your shoes.

• Dustpan and brush

These are so handy to keep inside the tent. We keep it at the entrance, so we can brush our feet at entry and also sweep the sand up from inside the tent.

• Bucket and towel

Another good way to remove wet sand is to have a bucket of water to stand in by at the entrance, and a dry towel to wipe off afterwards.