Although it has a reputation for being rather basic in terms of home comforts, the modern material used in (0) THE manufacture of tents means camping is at least a (1) ............ less hard work. Nowadays tents are (2) ............ lightweight that you hardly notice you're carrying them. They're easy to put up yet still a cheaper alternative to hotel accommodation. Talk to an expert first before spending a lot of money (3) ............ a tent. Different tents suit different needs and there's no point (4) ............ buying a mountaineering tent (5) ............ you're planning to camp in these conditions. Don't be tempted to splash out on all the latest equipment either. Most of the fun of camping lies in the chance to get back to nature. There's no need to take anything more (6) ............ the basics. Always try to plan your arrival at the site long before it gets dark. You will want to see (7) ............ you're doing when you try to erect your tent. Don't forget to ask for permission if you're not camping on a registered site, and remember to take a supply of food and drink with you in (8) ............ the local shops are closed when you arrive. You can then enjoy your first meal under the stars and begin to appreciate the joys of camping.