Camping is a great way to disconnect from your hectic work life and plug into natural surroundings around. A camp vacation has some unique experiences to offer that closed walls of hotels can never provide. Of course, there are more challenges and dangerous aspects to face, but you don’t have to worry about them with proper planning.
The research you do and items you carry along in your backpack bring the actual difference. Except for the hurdles that nature presents, your preparation is what makes up for a relaxing trip or a challenging one. So, if it is your first camping trip, here is a list of things you need to take for better comfort and a memorable time –
- Campsite Necessities
Since you will be under open skies for your trip, you would require some shelter and other arrangements for warmth and a night of comfortable sleep. Tents, sleeping bags, light air mattresses, pillows, folding chairs and tables, headlamps, fire lighting kits, and string lights are few basics you must pack. If possible, you can add on blankets, comforters, throw rugs, and other comfort-enhancing items.
- Cooking and Dining Items
Traveling with family and kids is different from wandering solo. With every one, you want more than ramen noodles and coffee. And because there aren’t too many sit-down restaurants anyway, you better take your eating and drinking essentials. Make space for a portable kitchen and things like – camping stove with fuel, cookware, pocket knives, utensils, water filter, chopping board, and pre-packaged snacks in your car. Don’t forget to keep trash and recycling bags, bottle openers, and tinfoil.
- Toiletries and First Aid Kits
When packing, it is vital to prepare for injuries, bug bites, and your hygiene on the trip. Even if you are going to spend only a weekend and plan to skip showering, you need something to stay clean. A deodorant stick and pack of body wipes are a perfect pick. Toilet paper, sunscreen, lip balm, bug spray, hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, itch relief, painkiller, and prescription medications along with a first aid kit, are other camp essentials you would need.
- Clothing and Rain Gears
You will see experienced campers always taking an extra set of clothes and shoes along. The weather can become a spoilsport anytime, and walk around in damp clothes may become highly unpleasant. And if it is cold already, it can even trigger hypothermia. So, make sure you have enough camping clothes and a lightweight waterproof jacket.
- Navigational Tools
If your camping itinerary calls for hiking in secluded areas or traveling to multiple spots, you would need a map, GPS, or compass to avoid becoming disoriented on unfamiliar tracks and roads. Less experienced campers often get lost in the forests with little preparation. And without food and water, that is no joke. So, keep a map or a guidebook handy and a pen-pencil in your pocket. Pack two-way radios if you are with a group, flashlights with extra batteries, and a travel lantern to trek safely.
