Tent

A tent is obviously essential for campers, but unnecessary for hostelers. A tent weighs so much and takes up so much space that it is difficult to combine hostels and camping without cursing the damn tent every time you sleep in a hostel. If you are getting around in a car, on the other hand, a tent is a very nice thing to have with you, just in case. For campers, unless you are planning a serious back-country European trip, you probably won’t need the same equipment you would in the mountains of the States or Canada.. Your biggest problem will be rain, not cold, and a rain fly is essential, especially in Britain or Scandinavia - at any time of year. Also, remember that you will be spending a much longer time living in your tent than on a typical camping trip.

A small tent for two or three people can be very unpleasant. Go for a larger volume than is absolutely necessary. If you have the option, bring a freestanding tent and leave the stakes and guy lines at home. Campgrounds can get crowded, and also those little bits and pieces can get lost very easily. For more information on tents, see the book by Harvey Manning mentioned on p.44.