What To Bring When Camping
Camping is a great way to get out and appreciate nature while spending some quality time with friends and family. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced camper, you’ll need to pack strategically so you don’t overlook any necessities. As a father of three kids and an experienced camper, I know the importance of packing the right gear for a successful and fun camping trip, so I’ve compiled a list of the essentials for every camping outing.
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Shelter and Sleeping Gear
The most important items when camping are reliable shelter and sleeping gear. It’s important to bring a tent that’s a suitable size for the size of your camping party, otherwise you’ll be cramped together in too small of a space. Make sure to bring the tent poles, stakes, and rainfly to fully protect its contents from the elements.
You also need a comfortable sleeping mat for each camper, along with a warm sleeping bag. When choosing sleeping bags, make sure they’re rated to the coldest temperature you expect to encounter. Also, make sure to bring extra blankets to further boost the warmth.
Lighting
In addition to the standard lighting you might encounter around a campground, it’s a smart idea to bring extra lighting sources for late night trips to the bathroom or to set up the campsite in the dark. Headlamps are a popular choice, but lanterns and handheld flashlights are also great options.
Cooking and Eating Gear
You’ll need a way to cook food and eat your meals, so bring a camping stove with fuel, pots, pans, cooking utensils, plates, and bowls for each person. Don’t forget dishes and utensils for cleaning up after meals, as well as kitchen towels and soap.
If you have space, an additional campfire cooking grate or tripod and grill grate are great additions for cooking over an open flame. The tripod can be used to suspend a pot of stew or pot of coffee above the campfire.
Clothing and Footwear
You don’t need to bring your entire wardrobe, but you’ll need to dress in layers to stay comfortable in changing weather conditions. Pack a mix of lightweight and warmer clothes, as well as waterproof outerwear. Keep in mind that camping is a physical activity, so make sure you bring comfortable, lightweight shoes to walk around the campsite and gear up for any possible exploration.
Miscellaneous Gear
The last few items to round out your camping essentials include a camp first-aid kit and notepad and pen. A camping hatchet or axe is great for cutting wood for fires, and don’t forget the insect repellent, sunscreen, and water bottles. It’s also great to bring lawn chairs and tarps to create a makeshift lounge or dining space in the great outdoors. Finally, don’t forget your camera to capture the magical moments you’ll make on your camping expedition.
Here’s a quick video recap of what to bring when camping:
Be sure to check the camping gear ahead of time to guarantee you’re packing the essentials to make your trip fun and comfortable for all in attendance. With the right camping gear and a spirit of adventure, you’re sure to have an unforgettable camping experience.