Desert camping: heat, sand and starry nights

Shade, water and power for hot, dry places.

Shade first

A canopy or awning is the most important piece of desert gear. Set it up before anything else on a hot day.

Carry more than you think — at least 4–5 litres per person per day, plus extra for cooking and emergencies.

Use long sand pegs or bury bags filled with sand as anchors. Ordinary pegs pull out in soft ground.

Deserts cool quickly after sunset. Pack a warm layer and a sleeping bag even in warm seasons.