Australia’s wonderful summer weather makes it easy to see why camping and time in the outdoors are such a popular pastime. Whether you’re a keen camper looking for ways to improve your camping experience or you’re planning your first camping trip, this post is for you.

Planning your next camping trip usually involves making a list of what you need and gathering supplies. Various-sized ratchet tie down straps may not be on everyone’s supply list, but they should be. This post takes a quick look at why tie-down straps are a must-have in your camping bag.

A Crucial Part of Your Outdoor Gear

Ratchet tie down straps are handy little gadgets primarily used to secure cargo to trailers, trucks and utes. They can also be used to tow vehicles and pull stuck cars out of ditches. You may be surprised to learn that they can also be used in a variety of ways on your next outdoor trip. Here are a few of the more ingenious ways we’ve seen Australians use ratchet tie-down straps.

Create Lighting

Many people may be content with just the moon and a campfire for light. However, if you’re camping with children and first-timers, they may be nervous about the lack of light. You can use your ratchet tie-down straps to create enough lighting to keep everyone comfortable.

Here’s how:

  • Set up your tents near a few trees.
  • String a tie-down strap between two trees and then simply hang your outdoor lantern onto the strap.
  • You can add a few lanterns to add more light. Be sure to space them correctly to create more even lighting.

This will shine enough light around the whole camping area. Opting to hook the lantern onto a strap in the air rather than letting it stand on the ground will ensure that your lantern doesn’t get knocked over or even lost. Keep an eye out for special hooks that can hold up your tie-down straps without harming trees.

Use a Few Hammocks to Create Comfy Beds

One of the reasons some people don’t like camping has to do with a fear of sleeping on the ground, where all of Australia’s famous creepy crawlies live. That’s why many people prefer to sleep on a hammock when they’re out camping. However, the hammock ropes may not always be long enough to get your makeshift bed at the right height.

To avoid the frustration, many experienced campers opt to ditch the rope altogether and use tie-down straps. It’s as simple as looping one end of the strap through the hammock and the other around the tree. Since tie downs are adjustable, you can easily get your hammock at the right height.

Tie-down straps are also excellent for connecting your children’s hammocks. First-timers will be more likely to feel comfortable if they can see that they are connected to mom and dad’s hammocks. You can also pack an extra hammock, which you can use as a storage place for loose bags, jackets and anything else that will clutter up your campsite.

An Excellent Way to Avoid the Rain

The last thing you want on your camping trip is rain. However, since you can’t control the weather, it’s a good idea to be prepared. Many campers prepare for this by including a tarp or two and a couple of different-sized ratchet straps.

Here you want to identify four trees, relatively close together. Preferably not downhill, as this will put you right in the path of mud and flowing water. Once you have identified your trees, secure your tie-down straps to the corners of the tarps and simply hoist them high enough to provide adequate shelter.

Always tie the tarp at a slant so that the water runs over one edge and doesn’t pool in the middle. Use this makeshift roof to cover tents or even a communal area where everyone can sit until the storm passes. Be careful not to place the tarp over your campfire, as this could easily set the tarp on fire if it’s too low. Furthermore, smoke may get trapped under the tarp and pose a health risk.

Keep Your Supplies Safe and Organised

Camping also involves finding the safest spot for supplies. Here, you’ll want a space that’s safe from the elements and those dreaded critters. Since the ground may not always be the best option, use your ratchet straps to hang your supplies.

Here, you’ll want to make sure that you opt for two trees that are in the shade to avoid food being spoiled in the sun. It’s also a nifty way to hang a bag of water bottles or even a first aid kit, especially if you’re camping in a large group.

Final Thoughts

Ratchet tie-down straps have many uses that exceed their regular cargo securing functions. A few robust tie-down straps will easily take your camping experience to the next level. Use our tips to make your next camping trip more fun and less hassle!