After the holidays, a lot of camping gear disappears into the attic. Everything is neatly stored away in crates and boxes until the next season. But that's actually a shame, because a large part of your gear can be put to good use during the winter. With these ten clever winter-ready tips, you'll have almost nothing to tidy up and can simply bring that camping feeling home.
1. Outdoor rugs
Outdoor rugs have become indispensable for tents, caravans, or trailer tents. They're both decorative and functional.
Winter-ready tip: don't put the rug away, use it! Clean it with water, lukewarm soapy water, or a garden hose, let it dry briefly, and then place it under a canopy, on your balcony, or simply inside. These runners are also ideal for the kitchen: they create ambiance and are easy to clean.
2. Side tables
That handy folding wooden table has already given you a lot of pleasure. Because it folds, it doesn't take up much space.
Winter-ready tip: don't clear the table! Use it for a birthday party, place it next to the Christmas table, or by the garden bench in the spring. It's also perfect for a lavish buffet, for example, as a tiered stand for snacks and drinks.
3. Camping chairs
Modern camping chairs are stylish and compact. Human Comfort chairs are sturdy and made of natural materials.
Winter-ready tip: don't put them away! Put them somewhere you can easily reach them. Handy for unexpected guests, an afternoon in the sun, or simply as an extra chair around the house. Need a quick moment in the garden? Grab them and you won't have to constantly lug heavy chairs or bring out a whole patio set.
4. Storage boxes
At the campsite they are ideal for kitchen utensils or children's toys, but they are also indispensable at home.
Winter-ready tip: use them for toys, craft supplies, or any loose items that would otherwise be lying around. They also work well in the shed or garage for neatly storing tools or garden cushions. This way, your belongings stay organized, and the boxes will be ready to go in spring.
5. Camping lamps
These atmospheric, wireless lamps with USB chargers are becoming increasingly common.
Winter-ready tip: don't put them away, just use them! They provide extra light in the living room, garden, or bedroom. Kids love them as a nightlight, and they keep that camping feeling alive. The biggest advantage is their ease of use. No cords needed, and after a quick charge, they'll last for days.
6. Camping stove
Camping outside the season requires some extra warmth, but a small stove like this also comes in handy at home.
Winter-ready tip: don't hide it away! Store it in the shed while doing DIY projects, use it in the garage, or take it out into the backyard. Whether you're baking oliebollen or having a winter barbecue, it'll provide just that little bit of extra comfort that lets you stay outdoors longer.
7. Camping mattress or air mattress
In winter, the demand for guest beds is high.
Winter-ready tip: keep your sleeping mat or air mattress handy. They're ideal for sleepovers and just as handy as a chill mat for the kids. Because many modern mats are self-inflating, you can set up an extra sleeping space in seconds and pack it away just as quickly. This way, your camping gear stays useful all year round.
8. Camping pillows
Not the small inflatable ones, but the luxurious memory foam pillows. They are often more compact and lower than a standard pillow.
Winter-ready tip: use a pillow and definitely don't put it away. Put a cover on it and try it at home for a while. You might find you sleep better on it, because the height and firmness are often just right. They also come in handy as an extra cushion on the couch or in the guest room.
9. Mood lights and fairy lights
They make the tent cozy, but they also provide atmosphere in winter.
Winter-ready tip: leave them hanging or move them indoors. They're great in the bedroom, the garden, or even on the Christmas tree. Because many string lights are waterproof, you can also leave them outside to make dark days a little cozier. They're also a treat for kids, as a nightlight, or simply to bring that camping feeling indoors.
10. Empty attic
Do you have any extra space because you've tidied up less?
Winter-ready tip: turn it into a mini-campsite. Set up a tent, grab some camping gear, and create a play area where kids can relive summer. A loft camping area gives them a place to play and imagine, while you keep your belongings organized. This way, tidying up suddenly becomes a way to extend that camping feeling into winter.
