Essential Camping Tips for Your Next Adventure!

Overland Malta
6 days ago
3 min read

Your go-to guide for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable outdoor escape.

Whether you're wild camping by the coast in Malta or setting up camp on a mountain trail in Gozo, the right preparation can turn a good trip into a great one. These essential camping tips are designed for overlanders, hikers, and nature-lovers alike — especially those exploring the Mediterranean outdoors.

Let’s dive into how to camp smart, stay safe, and enjoy the journey.

🏕️ 1. Choose the Right Campsite

In Malta, wild camping is technically not legal, but discreet, respectful overnight stays are often tolerated in rural or remote areas — especially if you leave no trace and avoid nature reserves.

🔎 What to look for:

Flat, dry ground (avoid wadis/valleys that flood in rain)
Sheltered from strong wind (like coastal cliffs)
Out of sight from main roads or private property
Near hiking trails or viewpoints

📍 Overland Malta Tip: Selmun coast, Mġarr ix-Xini (Gozo), and limits of Żebbieħ offer good options for remote, scenic camping.

🏕️ 2. Pack Smart — Not Heavy

Your comfort hinges on your gear. Here's what you actually need for Malta’s mild climate:

💤 Sleep Setup

Lightweight tent or rooftop tent
Sleeping bag rated 5–10°C
Inflatable mat or folding camp bed
Pillow or stuff sack filled with clothes

🛒 Recommended:

👉 Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 Tent

👉 Sea to Summit Ether Light Mat

🍳 Camp Kitchen

Portable gas stove
Mess kit (pan, plate, utensils)
Reusable cup & coffee press
Food-grade water container
Trash bags

📚 Related post: Portable Cooking Equipment for Camps & Beaches »

🔦 3. Don’t Forget Lighting

Malta’s countryside gets dark fast. A reliable light source is crucial.

🔦 Must-haves:

LED headlamp
Rechargeable lantern
Solar string lights (for ambience)

🛒 Try this:

👉 Black Diamond Storm 500-R

👉 Goal Zero Crush Light Solar Lantern

🔥 4. Follow Fire Safety Rules

Open fires are banned in most areas of Malta. Use portable gas stoves only and keep water nearby just in case. Always check the local fire risk if you're camping near woodlands.

✅ Pro tips:

Never cook inside a tent
Cool down stoves completely before packing
Use windshields for better gas efficiency

🧼 5. Leave No Trace

This rule isn’t just a slogan — it’s a must.

🗑️ Always pack out:

All food waste (even biodegradable)
Wet wipes and tissue
Bottle caps, wrappers, etc.

♻️ Bonus: Bring a spare bag to pick up any trash you find. Every little bit helps.

💧 6. Plan Your Water & Toileting Needs

There aren’t many natural water sources in Malta, so carry all you need.

💧 For a weekend trip:

2–3L drinking water per person per day
Extra 2–5L for cooking & cleaning
Collapsible water containers save space

🚽 For toilets:

Bring a trowel to bury waste (away from trails & water)
Use a portable toilet bag system if you’re in a sensitive zone

🛒 Try this:👉 Klean Kanteen 1L Container

🎒 7. Check the Weather — Then Check Again

Even Malta gets surprise rain and strong winds. Before heading out:

Use apps like Windy or YR.no
Bring a light rain jacket just in case
Stake your tent securely (especially on rocky ground)

🧭 8. Bring Navigation Tools

For remote spots, signal may drop. Always have offline maps and a way to orient yourself.

✅ Essentials:

GPS device or offline app like Gaia, Organic Maps
Physical compass (as backup)
Printed map or route notes

🛒 Garmin eTrex 32x GPS

🛻 9. Overlanding? Level Up Your Setup

If you’re camping as part of an overland journey, consider:

Rooftop tent
12V fridge or cooler
Fold-out table & chairs
Solar panel system
Recovery gear in case you get stuck

📚 Read more: Best Auxiliary Power Systems for Overlanders »

📝 Final Camping Checklist

Gear Type	Essentials
Shelter	Tent / Rooftop Tent, Mat, Sleeping Bag
Cooking	Gas Stove, Utensils, Water, Trash Bags
Lighting	Headlamp, Lantern, Solar String Lights
Navigation	Offline Maps, GPS, Compass
Hygiene	Wipes, Trowel, Toothbrush, Trash Bags
Safety	First Aid Kit, Power Bank, Multi-tool
Bonus	Folding Table, Camp Chair, Hammock

🛒 Want to Gear Up?

👉 Check out our full list of recommended gear for camping, hiking, and overlanding:www.overlandmalta.com/gear

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